The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, a lifeline connecting Kashmir to the rest of India, remained closed for the second consecutive day following devastating landslides, flash floods, and mudslides triggered by relentless rainfall and cloudbursts in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district.
Authorities from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) confirmed that restoration work is currently underway at over 20 critical points. However, due to the extent of damage and the accumulation of debris, the road clearance operation is expected to take nearly a week.
Massive Disruption on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway
On Sunday, heavy rainfall unleashed natural disasters across the mountainous terrain, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded along the 250-kilometre strategic highway. The affected route, recognized as the only all-weather road linking the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, has suffered substantial infrastructural damage.
Among the most affected areas are the stretches between Seri and Maroog, where deposits of mud and debris over 20 feet high have blocked the road. According to Purshottam Kumar, NHAI Project Director, “The muck deposited on the highway at multiple locations is unprecedented. Major machinery, including earth movers, have been buried under the debris.”
Casualties and Rescue Operations Amid Natural Calamity
The sudden cloudbursts and subsequent landslides have claimed the lives of three individuals, including two young siblings. Emergency rescue teams managed to save over 100 people from the disaster-hit zones. Several residential houses, roads, and vehicles have been badly damaged, with many cars completely buried beneath layers of mud and boulders.
Relief Efforts and Machinery Mobilized
Despite the challenges, the NHAI has managed to mobilize earthmoving equipment and resources from private contractors to assist in the clearance efforts. Work is progressing simultaneously at 20 different points to expedite the restoration of traffic along the critical highway. Encouragingly, the weather has improved after two days of incessant rainfall, which may help speed up the operations.
Still, officials estimate that it will take five to six days before the highway is reopened for regular traffic. Areas near Panthiyal and Kela Morh are reported to be severely damaged and require significant reconstruction work.
Stranded Travelers Face Harsh Conditions
While restoration work continues, stranded commuters — including families, tourists, and newlywed couples — are navigating treacherous terrain on foot in an attempt to reach safer locations.
Devi Lal, a resident of Rajasthan, expressed the difficulty of the journey while heading home from Budgam district: “The road is destroyed in multiple places. It’s in a terrible state.” He, along with other members of his community, including women and children, chose to walk across damaged sections before trying to find alternate transportation.
One woman named Jamna, seen carrying her child on her shoulders, described a chilling scene with stones and boulders still rolling down the hillside. “It’s frightening. We haven’t had a proper meal in two days,” she said while making her way towards Udhampur.
Read also: Cloudburst in Ramban: Over 100 Rescued After Flash Flood Devastates Dharam Kund Village
Newlyweds Walk for Miles Amid Disaster
In an extraordinary turn of events, a newlywed couple, Zahir Ahmad and Zaheera Bano, had to abandon their vehicle and walk from Chenani to Ramban, still dressed in their wedding attire. Despite the exhausting journey, Ahmad shared, “It was tiring, but in a way, it made the day even more special. I just hope no one else has to face this.”
Key Emergency Helplines for Jammu and Kashmir Travelers for Jammu-Srinagar National Highway
For those affected or planning to travel through the region, emergency helpline numbers have been released by the Traffic Police. Travelers are also advised to follow official traffic updates on Twitter and Facebook for real-time alerts.
| Region | Helpline Numbers |
|---|---|
| TCU Jammu | 0191-2459048, 0191-2740550, 9419147732, 103 |
| TCU Srinagar | 0194-2450022, 2485396, 18001807091, 103 |
| TCU Ramban | 9419993745, 1800-180-7043 |
| TCU Udhampur | 8491928625 |
| PCR Kishtwar | 9906154100 |
| PCR Kargil | 9541902330, 9541902331 |
| PCR Ganderbal | 9906668731 |
The closure of the Jammu-Srinagar Highway has not only disrupted travel but also delivered a heavy blow to tourism and commerce in the region. With the Amarnath Yatra and Kashmir tourism season overlapping with this period, local businesses are already reporting losses. Tour operators and hotel owners have requested urgent intervention and compensation for the damages.
Safety First: Travel Tips During Monsoon in Hilly Regions
Travelers planning journeys through Jammu and Kashmir during monsoon should:
- Check weather forecasts and road conditions in advance.
- Keep emergency supplies, including food, water, and medicines.
- Avoid traveling during night hours or through landslide-prone areas.
- Stay connected with local helplines and official traffic advisories.
The situation on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway underscores the vulnerability of the region’s infrastructure during natural calamities. As the administration races against time to clear the debris and reopen the highway, the resilience of the stranded travelers and the tireless work of the rescue teams deserve appreciation.
Until the road is restored, authorities urge patience, caution, and cooperation from the public. Regular updates will be shared through official channels to ensure traveler safety and transparency in the restoration process.
