The recent incident in Handwara, where locals had to carry a woman and her newborn on their shoulders through heavy snowfall, is a stark reminder of the deep chasm between political rhetoric and governance realities in Jammu and Kashmir. While governments often showcase infrastructure and development projects as symbols of progress, this heart-wrenching episode underscores the dire need for action that directly alleviates the hardships faced by ordinary people.

It is not just a tragic story – it’s a damning indictment of winter preparedness in Kashmir. This single incident captures the essence of decades-long neglect by authorities who equate preparedness with snowplows and salt trucks while ignoring the human cost of their indifference.

Winter Preparedness or a Snow Clearing Contest?

In Kashmir, “winter preparedness” is a fancy term for clearing snow off main roads – and that too inconsistently, and mostly in urban than rural areas. Beyond these cosmetic efforts, no thought is given to keeping hospitals accessible, ensuring power supply, or making life livable during harsh winters. The administration seems to believe that as long as snowplows are running, the job is done. But winter preparedness means much more. It means guaranteeing that people don’t risk their lives carrying patients through snowdrifts. Has the government ever thought of this? Likely not – they’re too busy clearing snow from their office........

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