Ramban, Jan. 23 -- The Banihal town of Ramban district on Friday witnessed the season's first heavy snowfall as fresh snow blanketed the entire region, bringing winter conditions in full force.

The snowfall began late last night and continued for several hours, leading to a sharp drop in temperature and reduced visibility.

The plains and upper reaches of Doda's Bhalesa and its adjoining areas also saw their first snowfall after a prolonged dry spell of nearly three months. People expressed a sense of significant relief and happiness at the much-awaited snowfall.

Meanwhile, Baramulla, Budgam, and the hill resort town of Batote in Ramban also received a significant amount of snowfall, covering the area in a mesmerising white spell.

The ...