J-K: Snow increases low voter turnout worry

Srinagar: The tourists get exited as the Valley witnesses the season's first snowfall, but Kashmiris know how bad this can get when it snows heavily - electricity, water supply, telecommunications and transport sevices take a hit as does aerial traffic, not to mention the miseries of the locals which keep piling up.

A citizen of Kashmir, Imtiyaz Ahmad says, "The surprise snowfall has affected many things including marriage season and business. It can affect polls too."

And Kashmir may also face difficulties in casting ballot if the weather gods don't relent, but politcical parties are aware of that.

PDP President, Mehbooba Mufti says, "Elections can't be held at this time. We have been saying that for a long time."

National Conference leader, Omar Abdullah added, "We are drafting a letter suggesting to the Election Commission to take a look at the weather and maybe seriously consider postponing the polls."

The Chief Election Commissioner, N Gopalswami had admitted weather remained a big challange, but his office was equally determined to hold free and fair polls in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Gurez constituency, which will see balloting on Monday, has recorded two to three feet of snow, Bandipore and Sumbal more than six inches. The adverse weather, especially heavy snowfall, can pose problems not only in the first phase but later when far-flung areas in Baramulla and Kupwara go to polls.

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