Traffic Advisory Issued for Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and Other Key Routes

Slow Movement Observed on NH-44; Traffic Plan for February 3, 2025, Announced

Jammu, February 2, 2025: The Traffic Police Headquarters of Jammu and Kashmir has issued an advisory for commuters traveling on various key routes, particularly the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44). Due to ongoing four-lane construction work and road conditions at multiple locations, slow movement was observed on NH-44 between 1700 hrs on February 1 and 1700 hrs on February 2, 2025.

NH-44 Traffic Updates

Traffic congestion and slow movement were reported due to single-lane traffic at Dalwas, Mehad, and between Marog and Kishtwari Pather. Commuters, particularly light motor vehicle (LMV) operators and passengers, have been advised to travel during the daytime, as shooting stones remain a major concern between Ramban and Banihal.

Goods carriers carrying perishable items and livestock must adhere to traffic advisories to avoid unnecessary delays. Authorities have also urged heavy motor vehicle (HMV) operators to avoid overloading and ensure their vehicles are fit for the journey, carrying sufficient fuel to prevent breakdowns on NH-44.

Traffic Plan for February 3, 2025

Subject to fair weather and road conditions, LMVs (passenger and private vehicles) and HMVs will be allowed to move from both Jammu and Srinagar on NH-44. However, the Traffic Control Units (TCU) in Jammu and Srinagar will coordinate with TCU Ramban for real-time updates. Travelers are encouraged to check the J&K Traffic Police’s official Twitter handle and Facebook page for the latest updates.

Security Forces Convoy Movement

Security forces’ vehicles will also be permitted to travel in both directions on NH-44, provided the weather and road conditions remain favorable.

Status of Other Key Routes

• Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag NH-244: This road remains closed as per the directive issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Kokernag on January 16, 2025.
• Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumari (SSG) Road: Traffic will be allowed only in one direction, from Srinagar to Kargil, provided road maintenance agencies give clearance. LMVs will be allowed first, followed by HMVs (up to six tyres) with mandatory anti-skid chains. Vehicles will be permitted to move from Sonamarg to Kargil between 1000 hrs and 1500 hrs. No movement will be allowed after the cut-off timing.
• Mughal Road: This route remains closed due to heavy snow accumulation, as per an order issued by the District Magistrate of Poonch on January 18, 2025.
• Bhaderwah-Chamba Road: This road also remains inaccessible due to snow accumulation.

Advisory for Commuters

Authorities have urged travelers to confirm road status before starting their journey. Contact numbers for Traffic Control Units in Jammu, Srinagar, Ramban, Udhampur, Kishtwar, and Kargil have been provided for assistance.

For real-time updates, commuters can contact:

• Jammu TCU: 0191-2459048, 0191-2740550, 9419147732, 103
• Srinagar TCU: 0194-2450022, 2485396, 18001807091, 103
• Ramban TCU: 9419993745, 1800-180-7043
• Udhampur TCU: 8491928625
• PCR Kishtwar: 9906154100
• PCR Kargil: 9541902330, 9541902331

Commuters are advised to avoid unnecessary stoppages, especially between Ramban and Banihal, near landslide-prone areas. Travelers must exercise caution and plan their journeys accordingly to ensure safety.

Weather Update for Jammu & Kashmir: Light to Moderate Snowfall Expected in Coming Days

Srinagar, February 2, 2025: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has issued a weather forecast for Jammu & Kashmir, predicting a mix of cloudy conditions and intermittent rain and snow over the coming days. While the immediate outlook remains mostly dry, a fresh western disturbance is expected to bring precipitation across various regions, particularly in the higher reaches.

Weather Forecast:

• February 2: The day will remain partly to generally cloudy, with no significant weather activity expected.
• February 3: The sky will remain generally cloudy towards the evening, with the possibility of light rain or snowfall in isolated higher reaches late at night.
• February 4-5: A significant change in weather is expected, with the region likely to experience light to moderate rain/snow at scattered to fairly widespread places. The precipitation will continue till the forenoon of February 5, after which gradual improvement is anticipated.
• February 6-8: The weather will improve, with partly cloudy skies and generally dry conditions prevailing.
• February 9-10: Another fresh spell of light rain/snow may affect isolated to scattered areas across J&K.

Advisory for Tourists and Travellers:

The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has advised tourists, travelers, and transporters to follow the administration and traffic advisories while planning their journeys, especially in snow-prone areas. Sudden snowfall can impact road connectivity, particularly on highways and mountainous regions.

With the anticipated snowfall, winter tourism in destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg is expected to flourish, offering scenic beauty for visitors. However, authorities urge caution while traveling in hilly areas due to possible slippery roads and reduced visibility.

For further updates, residents and travelers are advised to stay tuned to official weather bulletins.