Banihal, Jan 29: The Traffic Police Headquarters, Jammu and Kashmir, on Wednesday evening issued a detailed traffic plan and advisory for January 29 in view of road damage and prevailing hazardous conditions along the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44).
According to the advisory, a 40–50 metre single-lane stretch at Kishtwari Pather, affected by road sinking, has necessitated restrictions on the movement of Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs). HMVs will be permitted to ply on alternate days to ease congestion and ensure commuter safety.
Passengers and Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) operators have been advised to undertake travel on the Jammu–Srinagar highway during daytime only, while night travel has been strongly discouraged due to the risk of shooting stones, landslides, and ongoing construction work between Ramban and Banihal. The advisory also cautions commuters about frost formation between Nachlana and the Navyug Tunnel, following recent snowfall, which could result in slippery road conditions.
Traffic authorities have urged motorists to strictly follow lane discipline, warning that overtaking and wrong-lane driving could lead to traffic jams, especially on narrow stretches.
As per the traffic plan, subject to fair weather and improved road conditions, LMVs, passenger vehicles, HPVs, and private cars will be allowed to move from both Jammu and Srinagar sides on NH-44. However, HMVs will be permitted only from Jakheni (Udhampur) towards Srinagar, after assessment of road and traffic conditions. No HMV will be allowed to proceed after 2:00 pm, and the Traffic Control Unit (TCU) Udhampur will coordinate with TCU Ramban before releasing such traffic.
