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Srinagar: Traffic on the vital Jammu-Srinagar National Highway 44 came to a standstill early Saturday morning, as heavy rainfall triggered dangerous landslides and mudslides, particularly impacting the stretch between Nashri and Banihal.
The event saw the participation of key personnel including SSP National Highways Rohit Baskotra, who officially announced the closure of the highway due to adverse conditions. The incident has highlighted the highway’s vulnerability to natural disasters and its vital importance for connectivity in the region.
The situation became worrying on Saturday morning due to heavy rain overnight in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Landslides and rockfalls have been reported at several places between Nashri and Banihal, including major areas like Dalwas, Mehd-Kaifetiya and Hingni in Ramban sector.
The natural calamity prompted the immediate suspension of traffic, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded. SSP Rohit Baskotra, overseeing the National Highway’s traffic, has issued a warning, advising against travel on NH44 until further notice.
After the incident, emergency response teams were swiftly mobilized to commence restoration work, aiming to reopen the highway as soon as possible. Meanwhile, authorities have urged commuters to seek alternative routes and postpone any non-essential travel. The disruption caused by the landslides and the ensuing traffic jam underscores the need for enhanced preparedness and response strategies to natural disasters affecting critical infrastructure.
As the community waits for the highway to reopen, this event provides a moment to consider how to better prepare for and respond to natural disasters, ensuring the safety and well-being of all affected. The situation on NH44 is also a testament to the resilience of local authorities and the community in adverse circumstances.
