Relentless Rainfall Triggers Landslides, Forces Closure Of Jammu-Srinagar Highway

Traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was suspended on Wednesday after relentless rainfall triggered multiple landslides, mudslides and shooting stones along the strategic route, officials said. The 250-km highway, the only all-weather road connecting Kashmir with the rest of the country, was closed from both directions as authorities assessed the safety conditions. A traffic department official said movement on the highway was stopped at around 9.30 am after landslides affected nearly a dozen locations between the Udhampur and Banihal stretches.

Road clearance agencies have deployed personnel and machinery to remove debris and restore connectivity once conditions become safe. "Commuters are advised not to undertake any journey on highway until the weather improves and the road is declared safe for traffic," the official said. Authorities urged travellers to avoid unnecessary movement as heavy rainfall continues across several parts of the Jammu region. The highway closure came amid widespread disruption caused by four consecutive days of heavy rain. Several areas have reported flash floods, rising water levels in rivers and damage in low-lying locations.

Residents in some areas said floodwaters entered homes and shops as water bodies across the region remained swollen. Rescue operations also continued in the flood and landslide-affected districts of Poonch and Rajouri, where seven people remained missing. Officials have been working to locate those missing as weather conditions continue to pose challenges for emergency teams. Several major pilgrimages in Jammu and Kashmir, including the Amarnath Yatra, Vaishno Devi Yatra and Machail Mata Yatra, have remained suspended since Sunday due to adverse weather conditions and safety concerns. Authorities are monitoring the situation before allowing pilgrimages to resume.

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According to weather department officials, Kathua recorded the highest rainfall in the Jammu region over the past 24 hours ending 8.30 am Wednesday, receiving 153 mm of rain. Samba recorded 133 mm, followed by Udhampur with 112.6 mm, Jammu with 62.1 mm, Katra with 58.5 mm, Poonch with 51 mm and Rajouri with 40.5 mm. The weather office has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall until Thursday evening, raising concerns of further disruptions in vulnerable areas. Officials have advised residents and travellers to remain cautious and follow updates issued by local authorities.

The Jammu-Srinagar highway is a crucial transportation link for the Kashmir Valley, carrying passengers, essential supplies and commercial traffic throughout the year. Any prolonged closure can affect movement of goods and increase difficulties for residents dependent on the route. With continued rainfall expected, road authorities and disaster management teams remain on alert. Efforts are underway to clear affected stretches, monitor flood conditions and ensure the safety of residents and commuters across Jammu and Kashmir.

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