Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, Aug 2

The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remained open on Sunday for the Amarnath Yatra convoy and regulated two-way movement of light vehicles and stranded heavy vehicles despite intermittent rain.

Traffic was being controlled along vulnerable stretches as restoration work continued following damage caused by heavy monsoon rains.

Long delays were reported at badly damaged sections near Dewal in Udhampur and between Maroog and Kishtwari Pather in Ramban, with traffic moving slowly on the Dewal-Samroli stretch.

The National Highways Authority of India carried out controlled blasting near Champari in the Chenani area to remove large boulders that had fallen on the Srinagar-bound carriageway.

The highway has faced repeated closures over the past two weeks because of landslides, mudslides, falling rocks and flash floods, disrupting passenger and freight movement.

Traffic authorities continued restrictions on local inter-district movement after 1 p.m. from Nagrota, Jammu, following the Amarnath convoy. Commuters travelling towards Srinagar were advised to use the old Jawahar Tunnel road, while those heading towards Batote, Doda, Bhaderwah and Kishtwar were advised to take the Patnitop route.

Heavy vehicles carrying perishable goods are being allowed on alternate days under a schedule issued by Traffic Police Headquarters.