Srinagar, Dec 31: Lack of snowfall in Srinagar has dampened the spirits of tourists and residents alike who expected to celebrate the New Year amidst heavy snow, a usual occurrence in the state around this time.

Despite the onset of the most severe 40-day period of winter, known as the 'Chilla-e-Kalaan', the region is under dry spell conditions.

"Here the weather conditions are such that the Western disturbances are not playing their role in brining about cold weather conditions and snow-fall in the region. The disturbances are passing by at higher latitudes. There is a dry spell," said T K Zutshi, Assistant Director, Meteorological Department, Srinagar.

This unusual weather phenomenon of long dry spell has cast a shadow over the tourism industry.

Tourists who have been camping in the region expecting to spend the New Year in a snow-covered Valley are visibly disappointed.

"We thought it would be cold here and we would get to see snowfall. We came all the way from Nagpur, which is comparatively hot, but are disappointed. There is no snowfall at all," said Neetu, a tourist.

Another tourist, Rajni added, "I came here for the snowfall. But I am a little disappointed that there is no snow."

Besides, the residents have become apprehensive about shortage of water and electricity during the winter months as the flow of water in rivers, streams and springs has drastically reduced.

Nearly 500 springs have dried up, and the level in the River Jhelum has fallen to a dangerously low level.

The power shortage, already at a perturbing 80 per cent, might assume the proportions of a grave crisis if the situation persists.

In 2005, Kashmir Valley received its heaviest snowfall in the last 30 years. (ANI)