JAMMU, Mar 4: Following a two-day closure due to multiple landslides triggered by heavy rains and snowfall, vehicular movement resumed for one-way traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway on Monday, officials confirmed.
The 270-kilometre highway, serving as the sole all-weather link connecting Kashmir with the rest of the country, had been shut down for traffic early Saturday due to landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones occurring at over a dozen locations between Nashri and Banihal, including Dalwas, Mehad-Cafetia, and Hingni in Ramban.
“In view of the single lane and poor road surface conditions at Dalwas, Mehad-cafeteria, Nachlana, Gangroo, Hingni, and Kishtwari Pather, only one-way traffic was allowed to resume this morning until the road is repaired,” stated a traffic police officer.
Traffic movement is reported to be normal from Jammu to Srinagar today. However, commuters are urged to adhere to lane discipline and drive cautiously.
“Commuters are advised to maintain lane discipline, as overtaking can lead to congestion. It is important not to travel against traffic plans, considering the potential traffic congestion due to the narrow carriageway between Nashree and Banihal on the highway,” the officer emphasized.
Additionally, officials reported a section of the road near Panthiyal being washed away.
Since February 26, traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar highway has been restricted to one way, with alternating use from Jammu and Srinagar, following extensive damage caused by heavy rains and snowfall at multiple locations along the arterial road last week.
