Kashmir, a northern region of the Indian subcontinent, experiences its traditional 40-day period of extreme cold, known as Chillai-Kalan, commencing from December 21. This arduous, yet culturally rich cold-spell is observed annually until January 31. The subsequent phases include Chillai-Khurd and Chillai-Bachha, signifying smaller and baby versions of the cold respectively. These sequential periods of cold weather are significant for their impacts on the climate, environment, and daily activities in the region.
Understanding Chillai-Kalan
Chillai-Kalan is much more than just a regular winter spell. It signifies a 40-day period when the Kashmir Valley endures extreme cold and heavy snowfall. With temperatures taking a deep nosedive, the water bodies in the region, like lakes, rivers, and streams, witness massive freezing, forming a thick layer of ice. These frigid conditions often create challenges for locals but also lend an ethereal beauty to the valley’s landscapes that attract tourists from around the globe.
The Later Stages: Chillai-Khurd and Chillai-Bachha
Not all winter in Kashmir is about the harsh Chillai-Kalan. The region’s winter also includes less severe periods known as Chillai-Khurd and Chillai-Bachha. Chillai-Khurd, translating to the small cold, extends from January 31 to February 19. It marks a slight ease in the intensity of the biting cold. Following it, Chillai-Bachha, or the baby cold, wraps up the winter season in the valley. Lasting from February 20 to March 2, it is a 10-day long period with further reduced cold before the onset of spring season.
The Role of India Meteorological Department
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) plays an instrumental role in monitoring these climate changes. Founded in 1875, IMD operates as an agency under the Ministry of Earth Sciences of the Government of India. Its primary role is to observe meteorological changes, forecast weather, and monitor seismological activities. Throughout Chillai-Kalan and the following cold periods, IMD provides indispensable information about temperature drops, snowfall, and freezing conditions.
| Weather Phenomenon | Duration | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chillai-Kalan | 40 days | December 21 | January 31 |
| Chillai-Khurd | 20 days | January 31 | February 19 |
| Chillai-Bachha | 10 days | February 20 | March 2 |
Impact of Cold Spells on Kashmir Valley
Typically dominated by a wet climate due to regular snowfall, these periods also have considerable impacts on the region’s socio-economic aspects. Most daily activities get hampered, making survival difficult. However, despite these hardships, the local population has found ways to adapt to this harsh weather, showcasing their resilience and spirit. The extreme cold conditions also impact agriculture, health infrastructure, and education in the region, hence understanding these periods of extreme cold are of utmost importance for adequate preparedness and response.