Ramban, Nov 9: The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway (NH-44) remained open for two-way traffic, allowing the movement of light, medium and heavy vehicles on Monday. However, traffic movement continued to remain slow at several locations between Udhampur and Banihal due to ongoing road widening works, construction activities and other traffic-related constraints.
The uneven road surface at Dewal in Udhampur district and the narrow, single-lane stretch between Maroog and KishtwariPather in Ramban district continued to pose major bottlenecks, affecting the smooth movement of vehicles.
According to traffic officials, hundreds of vehicles crossed the Chenani-Nashri and Banihal-Qazigund tunnels during the day. However, traffic remained sluggish at several locations due to narrow carriageways, ongoing construction work, uneven road surfaces and occasional vehicle breakdowns.
A 30–40-metre stretch of uneven road at Dewal and the single-lane section between Maroog and KishtwariPather continued to cause difficulties for commuters. Vehicle breakdowns between Nachlana and Ramsoo also contributed to congestion.
The movement of nomadic livestock herds along narrow stretches, particularly between Maroog and KishtwariPather, could further affect traffic flow. Commuters have been advised to maintain lane discipline and avoid unnecessary overtaking.
Meanwhile, restrictions on the movement of Kashmir-bound oil and gas tankers will continue in view of ongoing highway widening work on the Digdol-KhooniNalla stretch. As vehicles carrying inflammable materials are not permitted to pass through highway tunnels, such tankers will be allowed to proceed beyond Chenani only during the designated night window, from 5 pm to 5 am. Their movement on the Digdol-KhooniNalla stretch will remain restricted from 7 am to 7 pm.
Tanker operators have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly. Transporters carrying perishable goods and livestock have also been directed to ensure that vehicles are loaded strictly in accordance with the advisories issued by Traffic Police Headquarters.
Traffic authorities have advised passengers and light motor vehicle operators to undertake their journeys during daylight hours and avoid night travel, particularly in view of the possibility of shooting stones, landslides, movement of nomadic herds and ongoing construction work along the Ramban-Banihal stretch.
Heavy vehicle operators have been directed to avoid overloading, ensure proper vehicle fitness and carry sufficient fuel before commencing their journeys. Commuters have also been advised to avoid unnecessary halts between Ramban and Banihal, particularly near landslide- and shooting-stone-prone locations.
