Diplomat Correspondent
Ramban, (DD): The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained closed for the second consecutive day on Saturday, as multiple landslides and mudslides triggered by incessant rainfall blocked several stretches of the vital route.
Officials reported that landslides hit key locations, including Dalwas, Peerha (near Peerha Tunnel), Mehad-Cafeteria, Jaiswal Bridge, Trishul Morh, Seri, T2, Monkey Morh, Mom Passi, Gangroo, Hingni Marog, Kishtwari Pather, Shalghari Rampari, Tabela, and Chamalwas. The worst-affected areas lie between Ramban and Banihal, where ongoing adverse weather conditions have hampered road clearance operations.
“Continuous rainfall has made debris removal difficult, and fresh slides are occurring at multiple points. Efforts are underway, but it is unsafe to allow vehicular movement at the moment,” said an official from the traffic department.
Authorities have urged commuters to avoid the route until further notice and to confirm highway status before planning travel. Helpline numbers for various Traffic Control Units (TCUs) have been made available for updates.
The Jammu-Srinagar highway is the lifeline of Kashmir, serving as the only all-weather road link to the rest of India. However, frequent disruptions due to landslides and harsh winter conditions continue to pose challenges for commuters, traders, and transporters.
For real-time information, travelers can contact TCUs in Jammu (0191-2459048), Srinagar (0194-2450022), Ramban (9419993745), and Udhampur (8491928625).(DD)
