Srinagar-Jammu National Highway likely to reopen fully within a week: CS Dulloo

Srinagar, Sep 20: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Saturday expressed optimism that the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway will be fully functional within a week.

He commended the efforts of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the divisional administration, and the traffic police in managing the crisis caused by repeated landslides and heavy rainfall.

“Every time the National Highway was restored, fresh landslides again created hurdles. At present, one-way traffic is being allowed on this vital route. The NHAI is working hard to restore the highway fully, and I am hopeful that within a week, it will be fully operational,” Dulloo told reporters in Baramulla.

Acknowledging the coordinated efforts of various departments, the Chief Secretary added: “The administration, traffic police, and divisional authorities worked tirelessly to regulate the movement of vehicles and minimize chaos.

Stranded fruit-laden trucks from the Valley were cleared to prevent losses to traders, while LPG and fuel shortages were managed through special arrangements.”

Reflecting on the recent weather challenges, the Chief Secretary noted that torrential rains on August 14 triggered landslides, while the downpours of August 26–27 were several times heavier than the regional average. These conditions, he said, led to recurring blockages along the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway, disrupting traffic and supply chains.

The Chief Secretary was on his visit to Baramulla today. During his review meeting with district officers in Baramulla, Dulloo also assessed the implementation of flagship programmes and centrally sponsored schemes. Stressing the importance of accountability and efficiency, he said: “We want our flagship schemes to be implemented in a way that directly benefits the people and provides them with better facilities.” (KINS)