Srinagar Jammu NH open for 2-way traffic

Ramban, Dec 2: The 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 issued for Wednesday, the Traffic department announced that subject to fair weather and good road conditions, NH-44 would remain open for the movement of all categories of vehicles.

Officials monitoring highway regulation said that although the road stayed functional in both directions throughout the day, vehicular movement slowed down at several stretches, including Balli Nullah, Dewal, Nashri–Dalwas, Maroog, and Kishtwari Pather between Udhampur and Banihal.

Single-lane conditions at multiple points and the breakdown of several heavy vehicles contributed to the sluggish traffic flow.

Despite intermittent slowdowns, hundreds of vehicles, including light, medium, and heavy categories crossed the Chenani–Nashri and Banihal–Qazigund tunnels till late Tuesday evening, officials added.

Authorities have advised operators of light motor vehicles and private car owners to travel during daylight hours, cautioning that night travel may cause inconvenience as heavy vehicles move between the Chenani–Nashri and Banihal–Qazigund (Navyug) tunnels during late hours.

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

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

It is pertinent to mention that four-laning work, including road widening and tunnel construction, is currently underway at several locations between Udhampur–Ramban and Ramban–Banihal.