Srinagar, Dec. 21 -- The 40-day harsh winter period in Kashmir, known as Chilla-e-Kalan, began on Sunday, coinciding with fresh rain and snowfall across the Valley that brought an end to prolonged dry and foggy conditions. The onset of Chilla-e-Kalan marked a shift in weather after several weeks of stagnant atmospheric conditions that had resulted in dense fog, smog and declining air quality, particularly in urban areas. Higher reaches of the Valley received fresh snowfall, while plains, including Srinagar and other major towns, witnessed intermittent rainfall. The precipitation led to improved visibility and a noticeable improvement in air quality, officials said. Meteorological department officials said the rainfall and snowfall helped ...