Ramban, Jan 14: The Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44) remained open for two-way movement of light, medium and heavy vehicles on Wednesday, officials said, even as traffic moved slowly at several vulnerable stretches due to road conditions.
Traffic authorities said that, subject to fair weather and favourable road conditions, NH-44 is expected to remain open for two-way traffic on Thursday as well. However, commuters were advised to remain cautious while travelling through the highway.
Officials said that although vehicular movement continued in both directions throughout the day, traffic congestion was reported at multiple locations, including Balli Nullah, Dewal, Nashri–Dalwas, Maroog and Kishtwari Pather between Udhampur and Banihal. Single-lane road conditions at these stretches were cited as the primary reason for the slow movement.
The situation was further aggravated by the breakdown of two heavy vehicles at different points along the highway, which disrupted the smooth flow of traffic for extended periods.
Despite these challenges, traffic authorities in Ramban district said that hundreds of light, medium and heavy vehicles successfully crossed the Chenani–Nashri and Banihal–Qazigund tunnels till late Wednesday evening.
In a fresh advisory, the Traffic Department reiterated that NH-44 would remain open for light, medium and heavy motor vehicles, subject to fair weather and good road conditions. Authorities urged operators of light motor vehicles and private cars to plan their travel during daylight hours and avoid night journeys due to the risk of shooting stones, landslides and ongoing construction work between the Ramban and Banihal sectors.
Drivers were also advised to strictly follow traffic regulations, maintain lane discipline and avoid overtaking or wrong-side driving, which often leads to congestion and delays on the highway.
Traffic Police, assisted by district police and highway patrol units, remained deployed at major choke points to regulate traffic and ensure safe passage. Commuters were advised to check the latest traffic updates before commencing their journeys.
