JAMMU/SRINAGAR, Feb 20: Fresh snowfall was recorded today in several higher reaches of jammu and Kashmir, including tourist resorts, while the plain areas of the region were lashed by rain, ending the prolonged dry spell across the region and raising the hopes of a reduction in the high rainfall deficit in the UT.Due to fresh snowfall in Banihal and Qazigund area, the authorities closed busy Jammu-Srinagar National Highway this evening and also suspended the movement of oil and gas tankers through Jawahar Tunnel and Patnitop section of the highway. A large number of vehicles have been stranded in Ramban, Nashri and Chenani section of the highway besides Qazigund and Anantnag area, the officials said.Trikuta hills of Mata Vaishnodevi received fresh snowfall today while due to snowfall and rains the helicopter and battery car service remained suspended today. However, on-foot journey of the pilgrims continued despite rain.
