Sgr-Jmu NH open

Ramban, Jan 30: The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remained open on Friday for two-way movement of Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs), while heavy vehicles were allowed to ply only towards Jammu.

Traffic authorities said that, subject to fair weather and favourable road conditions, the highway would continue to remain open on Saturday for two-way traffic of LMVs while heavy vehicles would be permitted on a one-way basis.

The restriction on heavy vehicles has been imposed due to a 20-30 metre single-lane stretch at Kishtwari Pather, where a portion of the road has sunk.

As a result, heavy vehicles are being regulated on a controlled, one-way basis.

Authorities said heavy vehicles would operate on an alternate-day schedule between Udhampur and Qazigund.

Passengers and LMV operators have been advised to travel during daytime only, as night travel is being discouraged owing to the risk of shooting stones, landslides, and ongoing construction work between Ramban and Banihal.

Commuters were also cautioned about slippery road conditions caused by frost formation between Nachlana and the Navyug Tunnel following recent snowfall.

Traffic officials stressed the need for strict lane discipline, warning that overtaking and wrong-lane driving could trigger congestion.

Earlier in the day, hundreds of LMVs plied from both the Srinagar and Jammu sides, while heavy vehicles were allowed to move towards Jammu.

Authorities said that, subject to improvement in weather and road conditions, LMVs and heavy vehicles would be allowed from both sides.

However, heavy vehicles would be permitted only from Jakhani, Udhampur, towards Srinagar after assessment of road and traffic conditions, and no heavy vehicle would be allowed beyond 2 pm.

The Traffic Control Unit (TCU) Udhampur would coordinate with the TCU Ramban before releasing heavy vehicles.

Meanwhile, the Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag National Highway remained closed due to snow accumulation.

People have been advised to confirm the latest road status from TCUs at Srinagar, Ramban, Udhampur, and Jammu before undertaking travel.