Traffic Advisory for Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) – February 17, 2025
Issued by: Traffic Police Headquarters, J&K, Jammu/Srinagar
The Traffic Police Headquarters, Jammu and Kashmir, has issued an updated advisory regarding vehicular movement on key routes, including the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), SSG Road, Mughal Road, and other important mountain passes. Commuters are urged to stay informed and plan their travel accordingly.
Current Road Conditions on NH-44:
From 15th February 2025, 1700 hrs to 16th February 2025, 1700 hrs, slow traffic movement was reported on NH-44 due to the following reasons:
- Breakdown of Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs)
- Single-lane traffic at Dalwas, Mehad, and between Marog and Kishtwari Pather
- Ongoing four-lane construction work
Advisory for Passengers and LMV Operators:
- Daytime Travel Recommended: Passengers and Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) operators are advised to travel during daylight hours, as there is a risk of shooting stones between Ramban and Banihal.
- Avoid Unnecessary Stops: Commuters should avoid unnecessary halts in vulnerable areas, particularly between Ramban and Banihal.
Guidelines for Goods Carriers (HMVs and LMVs):
- Vehicles carrying fresh perishable goods or livestock should follow the advisories issued by the Traffic Police Headquarters.
- Overloading is strictly prohibited—operators must ensure that vehicles are properly loaded and have sufficient fuel for the journey.
- HMVs with only 06 and 10 tyres are allowed to travel via Dhar Road.
Traffic Plan for February 17, 2025:
Subject to fair weather and road conditions, both LMVs and HMVs will be allowed to travel in both directions on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44):
- Jammu to Srinagar
- Srinagar to Jammu
Traffic Control Units (TCU) in Jammu and Srinagar will coordinate with TCU Ramban to monitor real-time road conditions. Commuters are strongly encouraged to check the J&K Traffic Police Twitter handle and Facebook page for updates before starting their journey.
Security Forces Convoy Movement:
If the weather and road conditions permit, Security Forces’ vehicles will also be allowed to travel in both directions on the Jammu-Srinagar NHW.
Status of Other Key Roads:
Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag Road (NH-244):
This road remains closed as per the advisory from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Kokernag, under reference number SDM/KNG/2024-25/3139-45 dated 16-01-2025.
Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumari (SSG) Road:
- One-way traffic is allowed, subject to fair weather and clearance from road maintenance agencies.
- On February 17, 2025, vehicles (LMVs followed by HMVs with up to 06 tyres) will be permitted to travel from Srinagar to Kargil between 10:00 hrs and 15:00 hrs.
- Anti-skid chains are mandatory for vehicles traveling on this route to ensure better traction on icy and slippery roads.
- No vehicle will be allowed to proceed after the cutoff time.
Mughal Road:
The Mughal Road remains closed due to snow accumulation, as per District Magistrate Poonch’s order DMP/JC/7273-92 dated 18-01-2025.
Bhaderwah-Chamba Road:
This road is also closed due to heavy snow accumulation.
Important Advisory for Commuters:
Travelers are urged to confirm road status from Traffic Control Units (TCUs) before planning their journey:
- Jammu: 0191-2459048, 0191-2740550, 9419147732, 103
- Srinagar: 0194-2450022, 2485396, 18001807091, 103
- Ramban: 9419993745, 1800-180-7043
- Udhampur: 8491928625
- PCR Kishtwar: 9906154100
- PCR Kargil: 9541902330, 9541902331
Travel Precautions:
- Always verify road conditions with the Traffic Control Units.
- Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition and carry sufficient fuel.
- Avoid overloading and follow traffic advisories strictly.
- Be cautious of landslide-prone and shooting stone areas, especially between Ramban and Banihal.
- Follow cutoff timings and travel advisories issued by the authorities.
Stay informed, travel safely, and adhere to the guidelines for a smooth and secure journey on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) and other key routes.
