Srinagar-Jammu NH open for 2-way traffic

Ramban, May 12: Despite intermittent rain on Monday night and Tuesday, the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remained open for two-way movement of Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) on Tuesday. 

However, traffic movement was slow at several stretches due to congestion, vehicle breakdowns, and the movement of nomadic herds along the route.

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

Officials reported major traffic congestion between Marog and Kishtwari Pather, where single-lane road conditions led to significant bottlenecks.

The situation worsened after two heavy motor vehicles (HMVs) developed mechanical faults at Panthyal and Digdool, causing further delays.

Authorities said that the large-scale movement of nomadic herds along the Nachlana-Banihal stretch affected the smooth flow of traffic. Around 14 nomadic herds crossed the highway on Tuesday, while several more herds are expected to move through the area in the coming days.

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

Commuters have been advised to maintain strict lane discipline and avoid overtaking, warning that wrong-lane driving could trigger traffic jams and hamper the movement of vehicles.

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

Meanwhile, Traffic Control Units in Jammu and Srinagar, in coordination with the Ramban district administration, are closely monitoring the situation.

Authorities have advised commuters to check the latest traffic and weather updates before undertaking travel on the highway.