The Srinagar-Jammu national highway has reopened for passenger traffic after being closed due to a landslide and shooting stones in Ramban district of J&K. Passenger traffic is now allowed from both sides on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44). Vehicular movement has resumed on the national highway, restoring strategic connectivity, according to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Traffic National Highway, Raja Adil.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of lane discipline to prevent traffic congestion, cautioning against overtaking and wrong-lane driving. Commuters are advised to verify road status through official platforms of the Traffic Police, including social media handles and Traffic Control Units (TCUs). The 300 km long highway serves as a crucial supply route for the landlocked Valley, transporting essential goods such as LPG, petrol, diesel, kerosene, mutton, poultry products, and vegetables.
Despite the operational rail link between Jammu and Kashmir, the highway remains vital for sustaining supplies to Kashmir. The renovation efforts, including new bridges, flyovers, and tunnels, have reduced travel time between Srinagar and Jammu to five hours from the previous 10 to 12 hours. However, the highway’s vulnerability to weather conditions, particularly the stretch from Ramsoo to Ramban town, poses challenges due to shooting stones and landslides triggered by rain, often leading to blockages that require days for restoration.
