Jammu-Srinagar Highway Remains Shut Amid Landslides; Mughal Road Offers Partial Relief

The vital Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, often dubbed the lifeline of Kashmir, has entered its fourth consecutive day of closure, plunging thousands of commuters and cargo carriers into uncertainty. Relentless landslides and the perilous descent of stones, particularly in the challenging Ramban sector at Dalwas, Kishtwari Pather, and Nachlana, have rendered the 270-km stretch impassable.

This prolonged closure has resulted in a massive backlog, with countless vehicles, including passenger buses and essential supply trucks, stranded at various points along the arterial road.

Despite the tireless efforts of road clearance agencies, intermittent rain and the unstable terrain continue to hamper operations, making the task of reopening the highway both difficult and hazardous.

Authorities are working round-the-clock to remove debris and restore connectivity, but the unpredictable weather conditions pose a significant hurdle, prolonging the ordeal for those caught in the gridlock.

In a much-welcomed development, the historic Mughal Road has been partially reopened, offering a crucial alternative for light motor vehicles (LMVs).

This picturesque route, which connects the twin border districts of Poonch and Rajouri with the Kashmir Valley, is currently facilitating one-way traffic. Vehicles are permitted to travel from Poonch towards Shopian, providing a much-needed bypass for smaller vehicles. However, heavy motor vehicles continue to be restricted on the Mughal Road, primarily due to its narrow stretches and residual snow accumulation in its higher reaches.

The region continues to grapple with adverse weather, experiencing widespread rain in the plains and fresh snowfall in the upper reaches.

This challenging climate underscores the fragility of the travel infrastructure and the immense efforts required to maintain connectivity. While the reopening of the Mughal Road provides a measure of relief, the full restoration of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remains paramount for the seamless flow of goods and people, underpinning the region's economic stability and daily life.

Travelers are strongly advised to consult the latest traffic advisories before planning any journeys in the affected areas.