Srinagar-Jammu NH open for 2-way traffic

Ramban, May 15: The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remained open for two-way movement of Light Motor Vehicles (LMV) and heavy vehicles on Friday, though traffic movement was slow at several locations due to congestion, vehicle breakdowns, and the movement of nomadic herds.

Traffic authorities said that, subject to fair weather and favourable road conditions, the highway will continue to remain open for two-way movement of LMVs and heavy vehicles on Saturday as well.

Officials reported heavy congestion along different stretches of the highway, particularly between Marog and KishtwariPather, where single-lane road conditions led to major bottlenecks.

The situation worsened after four heavy vehicles developed technical snags between Nashri and Banihal, disrupting the smooth flow of traffic.

The movement of large nomadic herds along the Nachlana-Banihal stretch also contributed to prolonged traffic delays.

According to officials, nearly 14 nomadic herds crossed the highway on Friday, while several more herds are expected to move along the route in the coming days, which may further impact vehicular movement.

“Traffic movement on the single-lane stretch between Marog and KishtwariPather is likely to remain slow due to the ongoing movement of nomadic herds,” officials said.

Authorities have advised commuters to maintain strict lane discipline and avoid overtaking, warning that wrong-lane driving and traffic violations could trigger further jams on the highway.

Passengers and operators of LMVs have also been urged to travel only during daytime hours and avoid night journeys due to the risk of shooting stones, landslides, and ongoing road construction work between Ramban and Banihal, and continued nomadic movement along the route.

Traffic Control Units in Jammu and Srinagar, in coordination with district authorities in Ramban, are closely monitoring the situation. Commuters have been advised to check the latest traffic and weather updates before undertaking their journey on the highway.