Kashmir Impulse Desk
Srinagar, Aug 10
The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remained open to regulated two-way traffic on Monday, but authorities reported slow movement at several stretches because of single-lane sections, damaged road surfaces, vehicle breakdowns and ongoing construction.
Traffic officials said movement was particularly slow at Dewal in Udhampur, where vehicles were being regulated over a single-lane stretch of roughly 30 to 40 metres because of damaged and uneven road conditions.
Another single-lane section between Maroog and Kishtwari Pather in Ramban district was also experiencing slow traffic.
Four vehicle breakdowns between Ramban and Banihal further contributed to congestion and delays along the strategically important highway connecting the Kashmir Valley with Jammu.
Authorities have urged travellers to check the latest road position before setting out because the India Meteorological Department has forecast rainfall in the coming days.
Traffic Control Units in Srinagar, Ramban and Jammu were identified as the points from which commuters should obtain the latest information.
Passengers and light motor vehicle operators have been advised to travel during daylight hours and avoid night journeys, particularly on the Ramban-Banihal section, where shooting stones and landslides pose additional risks.
Construction activity along the highway is also expected to cause delays.
Traffic officials have advised motorists not to stop unnecessarily, especially in areas vulnerable to landslides and falling stones.
Operators of goods vehicles carrying fresh and perishable commodities and livestock have been instructed to comply with traffic advisories and load their vehicles according to prescribed limits.
Heavy-vehicle owners have also been told to avoid overloading, ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and carry adequate fuel before beginning the journey.
For Tuesday, the Traffic Police said passenger light motor vehicles, private cars, heavy vehicles and goods carriers would be permitted to travel in both directions, subject to favourable weather and improved road conditions.
The authorities have stressed lane discipline and warned against overtaking and wrong-lane driving, which they said could worsen congestion and disrupt traffic flow.
With adverse weather possible, officials have urged travellers to obtain the latest highway status before departure and follow advisories issued by the Traffic Police.
