Jammu-Srinagar highway reopens after heavy snowfall disruption; NH44 clears up

Traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH44) has been restored after a temporary suspension due to continuous heavy snowfall between Banihal and Ramsoo. Passenger vehicles are now moving from both directions, while heavy motor vehicles (HMVs) are expected to be allowed shortly.
The Traffic Police have advised commuters to maintain lane discipline for safe travel, warning that overtaking could lead to congestion and potential penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act. Earlier, the highway was closed for vehicular movement late Thursday evening and remained shut overnight due to slippery conditions in the Banihal-Qazigund section and between Ramban and Banihal.
Vehicle traffic was suspended in several areas of the route due to a recent snow and rainstorm. Road conditions were dangerous in the Ramsu-Banihal and Banihal-Qazigund sectors due to heavy snowfall and rain in the Nashri-Banihal sector.
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Authorities have confirmed that the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road, Mughal Road, Sinthan Road, and Bhaderwah-Chamba Road remain closed due to fresh snowfall. However, efforts are underway to clear these routes and restore normal movement.
The highway shutdown left more than 300 vehicles stuck Thursday night, including some with passengers. A long dry spell ended with significant snowfall in the higher elevations of Jammu and Kashmir and rains in the lower areas.
According to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Traffic, NH44, the road had to be closed due to the accumulation of snow, making certain sections extremely slippery. In response, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) deployed personnel and machinery to clear stranded vehicles at Nachilana, Sherbibi, and across the Banihal-Qazigund four-lane tunnel.
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Passenger vehicles can now travel on NH44 without experiencing significant inconveniences thanks to the efforts of authorities and maintenance agencies that helped restore two-way traffic. To make the route safer for HMVs and other transport vehicles, the authorities are still working on their projects.
Travellers have been advised to check for official updates before setting out and to adhere to safety regulations. The restoration of traffic on NH44 is a significant relief for commuters and businesses, ensuring continued connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar.