Srinagar–Jammu NH open

Ramban, Nov 23: The Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44) remained open for two-way movement of light, medium and heavy vehicles on Sunday, traffic authorities said.

However, traffic movement remained slow due to single-lane road stretches at several locations between Udhampur and Banihal.

In a fresh advisory issued for Monday, the Traffic department announced that the highway would continue to remain open for all categories of vehicles, subject to fair weather and road conditions.

Officials monitoring the highway said that although the road stayed open throughout the day, traffic moved slowly along several stretches — including Balli Nullah, Dewal, Nashri–Dalwas, Maroog and Kishtwari Pather between Udhampur and Banihal — largely due to single-lane traffic at multiple points. The breakdown of several heavy vehicles further contributed to congestion.

Despite the sluggish movement, hundreds of vehicles crossed the Chenani–Nashri and Banihal–Qazigund (Navyug) tunnels till late Tuesday evening, officials added.

Authorities have advised light motor vehicle operators and private car owners to plan their journeys during daylight hours, noting that night travel might be inconvenient due to the movement of heavy vehicles between the two main tunnels.

The advisory also stressed strict lane discipline, adherence to traffic regulations and the need to avoid overtaking or driving on the wrong side — violations that often lead to bottlenecks on the busy corridor.

Travellers have been urged to follow the latest traffic updates before starting their journey.

Meanwhile, road and tunnel construction work under the ongoing four-laning project continues at several points between Ramban and Banihal, affecting traffic flow on the highway.