Ramban, Aug 10: The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remained open for regulated two-way traffic of Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) and heavy vehicles on Monday, even as commuters experienced slow movement at several vulnerable stretches due to single-lane traffic, uneven road surfaces, and ongoing construction work.
Traffic authorities said very slow movement was reported at Dewal in Udhampur, where traffic is being regulated on a single-lane stretch of about 30-40 metres because of the damaged and uneven road surface.
Slow movement was also witnessed along the single-lane stretch between Maroog and Kishtwari Pather in Ramban district.
The movement of traffic was further affected by the breakdown of four vehicles between Ramban and Banihal, resulting in congestion and delays.
In view of the inclement weather forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the possibility of rainfall over the coming days, traffic authorities advised commuters to confirm the latest status of the highway from the Traffic Control Units (TCUs) at Srinagar, Ramban, and Jammu before undertaking their journey.
Passengers and LMV operators have been advised to undertake journeys on the highway during daylight hours and avoid night travel, particularly between Ramban and Banihal, due to the risk of shooting stones and landslides.
Ongoing highway construction work in the sector may also cause inconvenience and delays.
Commuters have further been advised against unnecessary halts along the highway, especially at landslide and shooting-stone-prone locations.
Traffic authorities also issued specific directions for goods carriers transporting fresh and perishable commodities and livestock, advising operators to load vehicles strictly in accordance with the advisories issued by Traffic Police Headquarters from time to time.
Heavy vehicles owners and operators have been directed to avoid overloading, ensure proper vehicle fitness, and carry sufficient fuel before embarking on the journey.
Meanwhile, in its advisory for Tuesday, the Traffic Police said that, subject to fair weather and better road conditions, passenger LMVs, private cars, heavy vehicles, and goods carriers would be permitted to ply on the highway from both sides – Jammu towards Srinagar and Srinagar towards Jammu. The authorities urged commuters to maintain strict lane discipline and avoid overtaking and wrong-lane driving, warning that such violations could lead to congestion and disrupt the smooth flow of traffic.
The public has been advised to check the latest highway status before starting their journey through the Traffic Control Units (TCUs) at Srinagar, Ramban, and Jammu and the official social media platforms of J&K Traffic Police.
