The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway (NH-44) remained open for regulated two-way traffic on Monday, although vehicular movement was slow at several vulnerable and construction-affected locations between Udhampur and Banihal.
Traffic was particularly slow at Dewal in Udhampur district, where a 30–40-metre portion of the highway was damaged by recent rainfall. The uneven and undulating surface has necessitated single-lane regulation, while the National Highways Authority of India has deployed men and machinery for restoration work.
Restoration is also continuing on the Srinagar-bound tube at Dewal, where rain-induced erosion has affected the road at two to three locations. Vehicles are being allowed through single-lane passages to reduce congestion and maintain safety.
In Ramban district, traffic remains regulated on the Maroog–Kishtwari Pather stretch due to ongoing construction, widening and road-improvement works. Intermittent delays are being reported at work sites and other vulnerable points, with traffic personnel deployed to manage movement through available carriageways.
Authorities have advised commuters, especially passenger and light-motor-vehicle operators travelling between Ramban and Banihal, to undertake journeys during daylight and avoid unnecessary night travel because of the risk of shooting stones, landslides and mudslides.
Motorists have been urged to maintain lane discipline, avoid overtaking and wrong-lane driving, and not stop at sensitive locations. Kashmir-bound oil and gas tankers are permitted to cross Chenani only between 5 pm and 5 am owing to widening work on the Digdol–Khooni Nallah section.
Traffic authorities cautioned that fresh rain, landslides, mudslides, shooting stones or additional road damage could trigger further regulation or temporary closure. Commuters and transporters have been advised to confirm the latest highway status with Traffic Control Units in Jammu, Ramban and Srinagar before starting their journey.
