Heavy rainfall once again disrupted restoration efforts on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, which has remained closed for the sixth consecutive day following a massive landslide at Thard in the Udhampur district. National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) teams used explosives to clear giant boulders from the 250-meter buried stretch, but work progressed slowly amid adverse weather. The highway, Kashmir's vital link to the rest of India, was briefly reopened on August 31 after a prior week-long shutdown but was suspended again on September 2. This reflects Jammu and Kashmir's recurring monsoon vulnerabilities, where heavy rains often trigger landslides, stranding traffic and disrupting supplies.

The pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine atop Trikuta hills in Reasi district has been suspended for the 13th day, following a deadly landslide on August 26 that killed 34 people and injured 20 along the old track at Adhkuwari. Meanwhile, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) restored connectivity on the Basohli-Bani road in Kathua district by bypassing a washed-out section at Tikri Morh, providing relief to stranded residents and linking to Bhaderwah in Doda.

The prolonged highway closure has left hundreds of vehicles, including trucks carrying essential goods and horticultural produce, stranded on both sides. Officials advised against travel until full restoration, with most sections cleared for two-way traffic except the damaged Thard area.

Also Read: Stalin Wraps Up Europe Tour with ₹15,516 Cr Investment Pledges

A meteorological forecast predicts light to moderate rain or thundershowers across Jammu and Kashmir through September 8, potentially worsening conditions. BRO commended its team for the risky bypass operation in treacherous terrain, highlighting inter-agency efforts to mitigate the region's flood impacts.

Also Read: Ashoka Emblem Defaced at Hazratbal, Leaders Condemn Act