Damaged road, poor mgmt push travel time

NIGHTMARE ON JAMMU-SRINAGAR HIGHWAY

- PRESS TRUST OF INDIA

The 270-km Jammu Srinagar national highway, a critical lifeline for the region, has turned into a scene of chaos and frustration for commuters, who face a gruelling ordeal as what used to be anearly five-hour journey just three weeks ago now drags on for more than 12 hours due to damaged road and poor management.

The highway — the only all-weather road linking Kashmir with the rest of the country ~ suffered extensive damages at several places, especially on the stretch between Nashri and Udhampur, in the aftermath of record rainfall August 26 and 27.

However, the damaged portion is not the only obstacle to smooth movement of vehicles.

Even as the authorities implemented a one-way traffic system after reopening the highway three days ago, lack of proper management has only added to the misery, the commuters who took the arterial road told PTI.