Jammu: Traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NHW) came to a standstill on Thursday, February 20, as heavy snowfall created slippery conditions and landslides between Banihal and Ramsoo. Authorities have strongly advised travellers to postpone their journeys on this route until weather conditions improve and the roads are cleared.
“Traffic has been halted from both ends of the Jammu-Srinagar NHW due to treacherous road conditions resulting from significant snowfall. We urge all commuters to avoid travelling on this highway until further notice. For updates on road status, please refer to our traffic police Twitter handle, Facebook page, and Traffic Control Units (TCUs).” an official told local media.
The road closure has left hundreds of supply-laden trucks stranded on the only road connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of India.
In addition to the highway closure, helicopter and ropeway services at the Vaishno Devi shrine were suspended due to adverse weather conditions in the high-altitude regions of Jammu and Kashmir. While the plains, including Jammu city, experienced rainfall that ended a prolonged dry spell, the hills surrounding the Vaishno Devi shrine were transformed into a winter wonderland, delighting devotees making their way from the base camp at Katra.
Officials confirmed that helicopter services from Katra to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine atop Trikuta hills in Reasi district were suspended earlier in the day due to “bad weather,” further emphasising the impact of the winter storm on travel and local activities.
Patnitop Hill Resort and its surrounding areas also witnessed fresh snowfall, while continuous rain impacted the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway throughout the day, the traffic flow on this crucial corridor remained unaffected despite the inclement weather.
Snowfall was recorded in various locations, including Peer Ki Gali and nearby areas along the Mughal Road in Poonch district, as well as in the Banihal hills of Ramban, Sinthan Top in Kishtwar, and the upper reaches of Doda, Kathua, and Reasi districts after a long dry spell in the region.
The heavy rains that lashed Jammu city and other low-lying areas disrupted daily life and resulted in a noticeable drop in daytime temperatures. Before this weather shift, the Jammu division had faced an 83 per cent rainfall deficit, while Kashmir Valley recorded an 81 per cent deficit since the beginning of the year. The recent precipitation has been welcomed as a much-needed relief for residents, particularly farmers.
