, Jan. 24 -- GANDERBAL: Sonamarg witnessed severe cold conditions as the minimum temperature plunged to minus 10.5 degrees Celsius, making the high-altitude tourist resort one of the coldest places in the Kashmir Valley, officials said on Saturday.

Sonamarg, which often remains cut off for prolonged periods during peak winter, continues to endure harsh living conditions as winter tightens its grip. Officials said adequate arrangements have been put in place to ensure the availability of essential supplies, adding that the situation is being closely monitored in view of the intense cold wave.

The plunging temperatures have further aggravated hardships for residents and personnel stationed in the area, with demand for heating appliances a...