Srinagar Jammu NH open amid sluggish vehicular movement

Ramban, Dec 9: Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44) remained open for two-way movement of light, medium and heavy vehicles on Tuesday, traffic officials said.

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

Officials monitoring the flow of traffic said that although the highway remained functional throughout the day, vehicle movement was slow at several stretches, including Balli Nullah, Dewal, Nashri–Dalwas, Maroog and Kishtwari Pather between Udhampur and Banihal. Single-lane stretches at multiple locations and the breakdown of several heavy vehicles contributed to delays, they added.

Despite intermittent congestion, hundreds of vehicles crossed the Chenani–Nashri and Banihal–Qazigund tunnels till late Tuesday evening.

Authorities have urged operators of light motor vehicles and private car owners to plan their journeys during daylight hours, warning that night travel may lead to inconvenience due to the movement of heavy vehicles between the Chenani–Nashri and Banihal–Qazigund (Navyug) tunnels.

Drivers have been reminded to maintain lane discipline, follow traffic regulations and avoid overtaking or driving on the wrong side—violations that frequently cause congestion on the highway.

Travellers have also been advised to stay updated with the latest traffic advisories before starting their journeys.

Meanwhile, the companies contracted by NHAI have started Dense Bituminous Macadam (DBM) work at the damaged road stretch from Maroog to Digdool between Ramban and Ramsu sector on Tuesday.

Senior Superintendent of Traffic Police National Highway Ramban, Raja Adil Hamid was seen monitoring traffic regulations and DBM work at Maroog.