Landslide hits NH-44 in Ramban, traffic disrupted

Ramban, Mar 26: Vehicular traffic on the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44) was disrupted for several hours on Thursday after a fresh landslide, accompanied by massive boulders, struck near Jaswal Bridge in the Karool area, about five kilometres from Ramban.

According to officials, continuous shooting stones and heavy debris between Karool and Chanderkote forced authorities to suspend traffic from both sides as a precaution. Vehicles were halted at safer locations to prevent any untoward incidents.

Officials of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) said the landslide activity had begun a day earlier, initially blocking the Srinagar-bound tunnel. Traffic was temporarily diverted through the Jammu-bound tube. However, a fresh landslide on Thursday afternoon blocked both tubes, bringing traffic to a complete standstill.

Restoration work was launched immediately, and by around 5 pm, one tube was reopened. Traffic has since resumed on a regulated, one-way basis, with vehicles being allowed alternately from either side.

Senior Superintendent of Traffic Police (NHW) Ramban Raja Adil Hamid and Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Alyas Khan, along with other officials, are supervising the restoration. Heavy machinery, including rock breakers, has been deployed to clear debris from the affected stretch.

Authorities said clearance operations and traffic regulation are underway simultaneously, though efforts to restore full two-way movement continue.

Commuters have been advised to avoid travel until normal traffic is fully restored. Those undertaking essential travel have been urged to drive cautiously and follow traffic advisories. Emergency assistance is available on helpline number 112.

Officials added that stranded vehicles are being cleared even as work continues to make both road tubes fully operational. Meanwhile, dark clouds hovering over the Nashri–Banihal sector have raised concerns of further disruption due to adverse weather.