The Jammu-Srinagar national highway, the lifeline connecting Kashmir to the rest of India, remains shut for the third consecutive day on Thursday, crippled by multiple landslides triggered by relentless heavy rainfall in the Udhampur-Ramban region, officials reported. The 270-km all-weather road, critical for trade, travel, and security operations, has been rendered impassable, leaving commuters and truckers stranded in a frustrating limbo.

The blockades, primarily between Jakheni and Chenani in Udhampur district, have halted all vehicular movement. Authorities estimate that 500 to 600 vehicles, including passenger buses, trucks, and private cars, are stuck at various points along the route. "The highway is closed from Jakheni towards Srinagar due to severe damage at multiple locations," a traffic police official stated. "No vehicles will be permitted from Nagrota in Jammu towards Reasi, Chenani, Patnitop, Doda, Ramban, Banihal, or Srinagar until further notice."

To manage local movement, officials have advised commuters from Katra and Udhampur to carry valid photo identification to facilitate smoother passage through checkpoints. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has deployed teams and heavy machinery to clear the debris and restore access, but the scale of the damage, compounded by flash floods and ongoing rains, has slowed progress significantly. "The BRO is working round-the-clock, but the situation remains challenging," an official added.

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The closure has also impacted alternative routes. The Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag highway is similarly shut due to hazardous conditions. However, the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumari road may see regulated traffic, including light motor vehicles (LMVs) and heavy motor vehicles (HMVs), between 11:30 AM and 5:30 PM, provided weather conditions improve and the BRO gives clearance. The advisory emphasized strict cut-off timings to avoid disruptions to security convoys traveling between Srinagar and Kargil.

Mughal Road, connecting Shopian in Kashmir to Poonch in Jammu, offers some relief for LMVs and private cars. Subject to fair weather and road clearance, vehicles will be allowed from Behramgala in Poonch and Herpora in Shopian between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Authorities have urged commuters to stay updated on road conditions and comply with traffic regulations to avoid further chaos.

The prolonged closure has raised concerns among travelers and local businesses, with many worried about delays in essential supplies and economic losses. As the region braces for more rain, all eyes are on the BRO’s efforts to reopen this critical artery.

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