Jammu-Srinagar National Highway Shut, Several Vehicles Stranded

Major landslides at 5 places on highway, say officials; all schools, colleges to remain shut in Ramban today

- HT Correspondent

JAMMU: Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was shut completely on Sunday following the landslides triggered by heavy rains in Ramban district.

Hundreds of commuters were left stranded on the 250-kilometer highway, the only all-weather road linking Kashmir with the rest of the country. "Vehicular movement has been stopped from both ends (Jammu and Srinagar) on 250 km long Jammu-Srinagar NHW (NH-44) due to landslides, mudslides and shooting stones at several places," said a police officer.

There are major landslides on five places on the highway, including Panthyal, Marog and Battery Chashma. "In view of inclement weather and heavy rains in district Ramban, the public is advised to stay alert and follow safety advisories. For any emergency, feel free to contact the 24x7 district control room: 01998-295500, 01998-266790. Stay informed, stay safe", DC wrote on X. A traffic police officer said that several vehicles have been left stranded on the highway in view of heavy rains.

"NHAI is ready with its manpower and machinery but weather is hampering restoration works. The weather is expected to turn stable soon and then only they can start removing the debris and restore the affected stretches," he said.