Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, May 26

The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remained open for two-way traffic on Tuesday, with light motor vehicles moving in both directions, although traffic continued to be slow at several stretches due to congestion, vehicle breakdowns and the movement of nomadic herds, officials said.

Traffic authorities said the highway would continue to remain open for two-way movement of light motor vehicles and heavy vehicles, subject to fair weather and favourable road conditions.

Officials said heavy congestion was reported between Marog and Kishtwari Pather, where single-lane road conditions created bottlenecks and slowed vehicular movement.

The traffic situation worsened after two heavy vehicles broke down near Digdool, leading to prolonged delays for commuters travelling on the route.

Movement along the highway was also affected by the seasonal migration of nomadic herds between Nachlana and Banihal.

Officials said around eight livestock herds crossed the highway on Tuesday, and more such movements are expected in the coming days, which could further affect traffic flow along the busy corridor.

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

Authorities advised commuters to maintain lane discipline and avoid overtaking, warning that wrong-side driving and traffic violations could trigger further congestion.

Passengers and operators of light motor vehicles were also advised to travel only during daylight hours and avoid night travel because of the risk of shooting stones, landslides, ongoing construction work between Ramban and Banihal, and continued movement of nomadic herds along the highway.

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

Commuters have been urged to check the latest traffic advisory before undertaking travel on the highway.

Meanwhile, the Kishtwar-Sinthan Top-Anantnag National Highway also remained open for vehicular movement, officials said.