The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, the lone passage link connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, was closed on Thursday morning due to a mudslide amid rainy weather. Officials reported that vehicular traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) has been temporarily suspended due to a mudslide at Chamba Seri in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir. The highway has been blocked in both directions this morning as debris fell on the road, obstructing the way. Clearance work is currently underway.
As of May 8, 2025, the traffic police in Jammu and Kashmir have issued an update on traffic movement and advisories for commuters traveling on key highways in the region. On the Jammu-Srinagar NHW (NH-44), subject to fair weather and road conditions, light motor vehicles, including passenger and private cars, will be allowed to move in both directions. Heavy motor vehicles (HMVs) will be permitted to travel from Jakheni (Udhampur) towards Srinagar after an assessment of road conditions and traffic status. However, no HMV movement from Jakheni will be allowed after 1600 hours.
Traffic Control Units in Jammu and Srinagar will coordinate with TCU Ramban for updates. Commuters are advised to check the official Twitter and Facebook pages of J&K Traffic Police for real-time updates. The police have provided contact numbers for various Traffic Control Units, including Jammu (0191-2459048, 0191-2740550, 9419147732, 103), Srinagar (0194-2450022, 2485396, 18001807091, 103), Ramban (9419993745, 1800-180-7043), and Udhampur (8491928625) for inquiries regarding road status.
Moreover, vehicular movement on the Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag NH-244 will be decided after clearance from the NHIDCL. The Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumari (SSG) Road will allow regulated traffic, subject to clearance from the Border Roads Organization (BRO) and favorable conditions. Light motor vehicles followed by HMVs will be allowed from Minamarg to Srinagar between 0800 hours and 1130 hours. Similarly, traffic from Sonamarg to Kargil will be permitted from 1300 hours to 1600 hours.
If weather permits and road conditions are satisfactory, light vehicles will be allowed to travel in both directions on the Mughal Road via Poonch. Only HMVs carrying fresh perishables or fruit (with up to six tires) will be allowed from Shopian towards Poonch, between 0830 hours and 1600 hours, through Behramgala (Baffliaz) and Herpora (Shopian).
Meanwhile, the Bhaderwah-Chamba road remains closed due to snow accumulation. Travelers are urged to stay informed and exercise caution while traveling. The Traffic Police Headquarters has emphasized the importance of checking road conditions and weather updates before embarking on any journey.
As the situation develops, commuters are reminded that safety is paramount. The unpredictable weather in the region can lead to sudden changes in road conditions, making it essential for travelers to remain vigilant and prepared for delays or detours. The authorities are working diligently to ensure that the roads are cleared and safe for travel, but they also advise patience and understanding as they navigate these challenging conditions.
In summary, while the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remains closed due to a mudslide, there are provisions in place for light motor vehicles on other routes, contingent upon favorable conditions. The authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and updates will be provided as they become available. Commuters are encouraged to stay connected with traffic control units and official social media channels for the latest information.
