Srinagar: A gunfight erupted on Saturday between the security forces and holed-up terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district, officials said.

Police said security forces started a cordon and search operation in Aripal village in Tral area after receiving information about the presence of terrorists  there.

"The militants, who were hiding, fired at the surrounding security forces, triggering an encounter which is underway," police said.

Srinagar has been witnessing a heavy snowfall and very low temperatures from last few days. The encounter is therefore underway amid extreme cold conditions.