The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, a crucial lifeline connecting Kashmir to the rest of the country, has reopened after being closed for two days due to multiple landslides triggered by heavy rains and snowfall.
Vehicular movement resumed early Saturday, as authorities urged commuters to exercise caution due to slippery conditions and the presence of single-lane sections near Sherbibi in Ramban district.
The 270-km highway, the only all-weather road linking Kashmir with the rest of India, was temporarily suspended on Thursday morning following a landslide at Kishtwar Patheri near Sherbibi.
The incident left hundreds of vehicles stranded on both sides, causing inconvenience to travelers.
The challenging weather conditions also rendered the road slippery at various points between Ramban and Banihal. Landslides, triggered by incessant rains, blocked the road at Magerkote, Panthiyal, Mehar, Cafeteria Morh, and Dalwas.
Road clearance agencies worked tirelessly to remove debris, allowing stranded vehicles to move towards their destinations by late Friday afternoon.
While the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has reopened, the strategic 434-km Srinagar-Leh National Highway and the Mughal Road, connecting Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu with Shopian district in south Kashmir, remain blocked due to heavy snowfall.
The Meteorological Department's spokesperson advised travelers to stay updated with official advisories, predicting wet weather until Sunday evening.
The weather forecast includes the possibility of light to moderate snow or rain at many places on Saturday and similar conditions on Sunday, with chances of heavy snowfall in isolated higher reaches.
The spokesperson detailed the expected snowfall, stating, "Middle and higher reaches of north, north-western, and central Kashmir may receive 7-10 inches of snow, while lower reaches and plains may receive 3-6 inches."
Additionally, south Kashmir's middle and higher reaches might see 12-15 inches of snow, with 6-9 inches in lower reaches and plains. The Jammu division is expected to receive light to moderate rain with thunder/lightning in the upcoming days.
The forecast indicates light to moderate snow over higher reaches of Pir Panjal Range and Chenab Valley, with heavy snowfall expected in isolated higher reaches of Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban districts of Jammu region until Sunday night.
Follow us
