Traffic Advisory for Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) and Other Key Routes – March 27, 2025

Current Traffic Situation on NH-44

The Traffic Police Headquarters, J&K, has reported slow movement on NH-44 due to the breakdown of four heavy motor vehicles (HMVs), single-lane traffic at Dalwas, Peeda, Mehad, and sections between Marog and Kishtwari Pather. Ongoing four-lane construction work has also contributed to congestion.

Important Advisory for Commuters

1. Daytime Travel Recommended: Passengers and light motor vehicle (LMV) operators are advised to travel during daylight hours due to the risk of shooting stones between Ramban and Banihal.
2. Goods Carrier Advisory: Operators carrying fresh perishable goods or livestock should adhere to advisories issued by the Traffic Police Headquarters, considering the poor road conditions in some stretches.
3. HMW Operators’ Guidelines:
   • Avoid overloading.
   • Ensure sufficient fuel supply for the journey.
   • Double-check vehicle fitness before traveling.
4. Route Restrictions for HMVs: Only HMVs with 06 and 10 tyres will be allowed to ply via Dhar Road.
5. Avoid Unnecessary Stops: Commuters should refrain from unnecessary halts, particularly in landslide-prone areas between Ramban and Banihal.

Traffic Plan for March 27, 2025

• LMVs (Passenger/Private Cars): Allowed from both sides—Jammu to Srinagar and vice versa—on NH-44, subject to favorable weather and road conditions.
• HMVs (Load Carriers): Allowed to move from the Navyug Tunnel (Qazigund side) towards Jammu after a road condition assessment. The Traffic Control Units (TCU) of Jammu and Srinagar will coordinate with TCU Ramban for updates.
• Security Forces Convoy Movement: Security forces should avoid traveling against the traffic plan due to congestion on the narrow stretch between Nashree and Banihal. Movements should be made from Srinagar towards Jammu only after confirming road status with TCU Ramban.

Updates on Other Key Roads

1. Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag Road (NH-244): Closed as per the Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kokernag’s advisory dated January 16, 2025.
2. Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumari Road (SSG Road): Still closed due to heavy snow accumulation.
3. Mughal Road: Closed per District Magistrate Poonch’s order dated January 18, 2025, due to snow accumulation.
4. Bhaderwah-Chamba Road: Remains closed due to snow.

Essential Contact Information for Road Status Updates

Before starting the journey, travelers should confirm road status through the following helplines:

• Jammu: 0191-2459048, 0191-2740550, 9419147732, 103
• Srinagar: 0194-2450022, 0194-2485396, 18001807091, 103
• Ramban: 9419993745, 1800-180-7043
• Udhampur: 8491928625
• PCR Kishtwar: 9906154100
• PCR Kargil: 9541902330, 9541902331
• PCR Ganderbal: 9906668731

For real-time updates, commuters can also follow the J&K Traffic Police Twitter handle and Facebook page.

Stay safe and plan your journey accordingly!

Birla Open Minds Pampore Launches Fellowship Conclave to Empower Students

Pampore, Kashmir – Birla Open Minds International School Pampore has unveiled the Birla Pampore Fellowship Conclave, a pioneering initiative offering up to 100% scholarships to meritorious students, reaffirming its commitment to academic excellence and equitable access to quality education.

The event, held in the presence of Chairman BML Welfare Trust Abdul Aziz Mir and General Secretary Ghulam Mohammad Lone, was graced by Guest of Honor, Tehsildar Pampore Malik Asif Ahmad (KAS), alongside distinguished dignitaries Dr. Farooq Wasil, Nasir Shah, M.A. Shah, Mr. Tariq Chalkoo, Dr. Raja Muzaffar, and Nasir Ali Khan. Their participation underscored the significance of the conclave in shaping the educational landscape of the region.

Dr. Mehnaz Rehman, Principal of Birla Open Minds Pampore, highlighted that education must transcend conventional academics, focusing on holistic student development. She emphasized that the Birla Pampore Fellowship Conclave aims to identify and mentor exceptional students, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and career guidance required to excel in competitive domains.

The fellowship offers structured coaching and expert mentorship for students aspiring to pursue careers in medicine, engineering, law, finance, and civil services, covering competitive exams such as NEET, JEE, CA, CS, CMA, CLAT, and UPSC.

Chairman BML Welfare Trust, Abdul Aziz Mir, emphasized the organization’s dedication to empowering youth through quality education, stating,
“Education is the most powerful tool for transformation, and no deserving student should be deprived of opportunities due to financial limitations. The Birla Pampore Fellowship Conclave is our commitment to ensuring that talented students have access to the best resources, mentorship, and career pathways to achieve their dreams.”

Birla Open Minds Pampore remains steadfast in fostering well-rounded individuals, offering diverse sports, music, theatre, arts, and international exchange programs. These initiatives empower students with life skills, leadership qualities, and international learning experiences.

With state-of-the-art facilities, including smart classrooms, digital libraries, and advanced science and commerce labs, the school continues to set benchmarks in modern pedagogy and global education standards.

The launch of the Birla Pampore Fellowship Conclave represents a transformative step in empowering the youth, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic potential. By fostering future leaders, innovators, and changemakers, Birla Open Minds Pampore continues to redefine the educational ecosystem in Kashmir.

Registrations for the Birla Pampore Fellowship Conclave are now open, providing an unparalleled opportunity for students to access world-class education and career mentorship. Interested applicants can apply via www.bomispampore.com or contact 91033 92949 for further details.

Asia’s largest Tulip Garden opens to public in Srinagar

Srinagar, Mar 26 (KNO): Asia’s largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar has been thrown open to public, marking the beginning of the Tulip show 2025. The garden was thrown open by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, unveiling a breathtaking display of over 1.5 million tulips.

Officials told news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) after officially opening the garden to visitors, the CM toured it and visited different sectors to witness blooming tulips.

They said that this year 1.5 million tulips with different varieties will bloom in the garden, which will mesmerise the visitors.

The garden is expected to attract locals and international tourists, giving a boost to the region’s economy—(KNO)

Weather Update for Jammu & Kashmir: March 26, 2025

Forecast Overview

The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has issued an updated weather forecast for Jammu and Kashmir, detailing expected conditions from March 26 to early April. Here’s what to expect in the coming days:

March 26-27: Light to Moderate Rain/Snow Expected

• A spell of light to moderate rain and snow (over higher reaches) is expected at many places, particularly over North and Central Kashmir.
• The precipitation is likely to occur from March 26 afternoon till night and again on March 27 from late afternoon till night.
• Gradual improvement in weather conditions is expected after March 27.

March 28-31: Dry Weather Prevails

• The weather is expected to remain generally dry across Jammu & Kashmir.
• No significant precipitation is anticipated during this period.

April 1-3: Continued Dry Conditions

• The first three days of April are also expected to witness generally dry weather, providing favorable conditions for outdoor activities and travel.

Advisory for Residents and Tourists

⚠ Travel Advisory:

• Travelers, tourists, and transporters are advised to plan their journeys accordingly.
• Follow administrative and traffic advisories to ensure safe travel, especially in areas prone to snowfall or wet road conditions.

⚠ Farmer Advisory:

• Farmers are advised to suspend farm operations on March 26 and 27 due to the likelihood of rain and snow.
• Delaying farming activities during this period will help prevent any damage caused by wet and unfavorable field conditions.

⚠ Thunderstorm and Gusty Winds Warning:

• There is a possibility of thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds at a few places on March 26 and 27.
• Residents should take necessary precautions to avoid any weather-related inconveniences.

While a brief spell of rain and snow is expected over the next couple of days, the weather will significantly improve by the end of March and early April. Travelers and farmers are urged to take the necessary precautions during the wet spell.

For further updates, stay connected with MET Centre Srinagar and follow official advisories.