The Srinagar-Jammu national highway has been partially restored for traffic on Wednesday afternoon after being closed due to mud and landslides triggered by heavy rains in Jammu and Kashmir. Traffic officials are clearing stranded vehicles, but travelers are urged to confirm with TCUs before traveling on NH-44.
Srinagar, July 19: The crucial Jammu-Srinagar national highway, a lifeline for the region, was partially restored for traffic on Wednesday afternoon, providing much-needed relief to travelers. The highway had been closed for several hours due to mudslides and landslides caused by incessant heavy rains in Jammu and Kashmir.
Traffic officials worked tirelessly to clear the road from the debris and stranded vehicles, allowing the partial reopening of the route. In a tweet, the traffic police provided an update at 1400 hrs, stating that NH-44 was partially restored, and they were making significant progress in clearing the blocked sections. They also urged people not to travel on the highway without confirmation from Traffic Control Units (TCUs) to avoid any inconvenience.
The closure of the Srinagar-Jammu highway had disrupted travel plans and transportation of essential goods. The restoration efforts came as a sigh of relief for those stranded along the route and brought hope for a smoother flow of traffic in the coming hours.
The picturesque Srinagar-Jammu highway, which spans approximately 270 miles, connects the summer capital Srinagar to the winter capital Jammu, and serves as a vital link between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country. Its strategic importance cannot be overstated, as it facilitates the movement of goods and people to and from the region.
The recent heavy rains in Jammu and Kashmir triggered mudslides and landslides in several areas, including the highway stretch, causing disruptions and posing challenges to the authorities in ensuring a safe and timely restoration of the route. The terrain’s hilly nature made it even more arduous for the cleanup and clearance operations.
Despite the partial restoration, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and work towards fully reopening the highway. They are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of travelers, given the ongoing monsoon season and the potential risks of further landslides.
Travelers planning to use NH-44 are advised to stay updated with the latest traffic information and contact the Traffic Control Units for confirmation before embarking on their journeys. It’s crucial to exercise caution and adhere to the instructions provided by the authorities to ensure a smooth and secure travel experience.
As the restoration efforts progress, local authorities and emergency response teams remain vigilant and prepared to handle any unforeseen challenges that may arise. The collective efforts of the government agencies, traffic police, and local communities are pivotal in bringing the situation back to normalcy and restoring the full functionality of this significant highway.
