Srinagar Jammu NH open amid slow vehicular movement

Ramban, Dec 7: Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44) remained open for two-way traffic on Sunday, allowing the movement of light, medium, and heavy vehicles, though officials reported slow movement at several vulnerable stretches.

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

Traffic officials monitoring the corridor said that despite the highway staying functional throughout the day, congestion was reported at Balli Nullah, Dewal, Nashri–Dalwas, Maroog, and Kishtwari Pather between Udhampur and Banihal.

Single-lane passages at multiple locations, along with the breakdown of several heavy vehicles, contributed to the sluggish traffic.

Authorities confirmed that hundreds of vehicles crossed both the Chenani–Nashri and Banihal–Qazigund tunnels until late Sunday evening. They advised operators of light motor vehicles and private car owners to restrict travel to daylight hours, warning that heavy vehicle movement in the tunnels during late hours may lead to inconvenience.

Drivers have once again been urged to maintain lane discipline, abide by traffic regulations, and refrain from overtaking or driving on the wrong side—violations that frequently cause bottlenecks along the highway. Travellers have also been advised to check the latest traffic updates before beginning their journey.