Srinagar, April 8: The strategically important Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remains closed for the second consecutive day due to a recent landslide in the Banihal sector of Ramban district.
Traffic department officials reported that National Highway 44 is blocked, and efforts are underway to clear the road in Shalgadi, Banihal, which may take some time.
Additionally, continuous rainfall is affecting the highway. Authorities have advised travelers to avoid NH-44 until the road is completely safe.
Officials stated, “Please disregard rumors and check the road conditions with the traffic police control rooms in Srinagar and Jammu.”
The highway had been reopened to vehicles on Monday, but fresh snowfall and landslides have caused further damage, leading to its closure again.
Debris from landslides at Karol Bridge and Chanderkot in Ramban district was being cleared when another landslide occurred in the Banihal sector.
Heavy rainfall continues to impact the highway in the Jammu division, disrupting repair work due to adverse weather conditions.
This approximately 300-kilometer highway, which winds through a valley surrounded by hills, serves as a lifeline for the local population. Most essential goods are still delivered to the valley via this route.
Despite the operational rail link between Jammu and the valley, LPG, petrol, diesel, kerosene, as well as mutton, poultry, and vegetables are still transported through tankers and trucks to the valley.
Until freight trains begin transporting essential goods and fruits and vegetables during peak seasons, the valley’s residents will remain reliant on the highway.
With the construction of new bridges, flyovers, and tunnels, travel time between Srinagar and Jammu has decreased from 10-12 hours to about five hours.
However, the region from Ramsu to Ramban is ecologically sensitive, making the highway highly susceptible to weather conditions. Landslides and falling rocks during rainfall frequently block this section, often delaying repair work for several days.
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Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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