Srinagar, Jan 09 : The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44)—the vital all-weather link connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of the country—remained severely congested for nearly 24 hours, authorities confirmed on Friday.
A senior traffic officer told the Kashmir News Service (KNS) that the extensive disruption lasted from 4:00 PM Thursday until 4:00 PM Friday. It was caused by enforced single-lane traffic at critical stretches, including Balinalla, Dewal, Nashri-Dalwas, and the sector between Marog and Kishtwari Pather. The situation was exacerbated by the breakdown of three Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) along the route.
He stated, “Passengers and Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) drivers are strongly advised to undertake journeys on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway during daylight hours only.”
The official cautioned that night travel is particularly problematic due to significant HMV movement between the Nashri and Navyug tunnels, which causes major disruptions after dark.
Emphasizing the need for strict compliance, he warned that overtaking and driving in the wrong lane would worsen congestion. Traffic management will be contingent on fair weather and road conditions, with LMVs and HMVs permitted to travel from both Jammu and Srinagar.
Coordination for real-time updates will be managed by Traffic Control Units (TCUs) in Jammu and Srinagar in liaison with the Ramban TCU, he said.
Security forces convoy movement on NH-44 will also be permitted from both directions, subject to prevailing conditions. Convoy commanders have been instructed to confirm the highway’s operational status with the Ramban TCU prior to departure, he added.
The traffic official further confirmed that major alternate routes remain inaccessible. The Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag road (NH-244) is closed due to fresh snowfall and accumulated snow, while the Mughal Road remains shut for the winter season.
Traffic on the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumari Road toward Kargil will be permitted only after clearance from the Border Roads Organisation and during suitable weather. A strict travel window from Sonamarg towards Kargil will be enforced daily between 1100 and 1500 hours. During this period, only LMVs and HMVs with up to six tyres—fitted with anti-skid chains—will be allowed. Motorists are strongly advised to carry chains for safer travel on slippery sections. Final cut-off timings will be disseminated by the TCU Srinagar and the Police Control Room Kargil, he said.
Security forces convoys moving from Srinagar towards Kargil have been directed to schedule their movements to avoid disrupting civilian traffic.
The official also stated that all travelers must confirm route status before commencing their journeys. (KNS)
