The vital Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was once again closed for traffic on Tuesday after multiple landslides hit the Ramban sector, disrupting movement and leaving over 1,200 vehicles stranded at various points.
According to officials, fresh landslides occurred between Digdole and Khooni Nallah, blocking the highway completely and forcing authorities to suspend traffic in both directions. Heavy rainfall in the region triggered the incidents, with debris and boulders rolling down onto the road.
🚧 Traffic Disruption Across Key Locations
Vehicles remain stranded at several locations including Nagrota, Udhampur, Banihal, Qazigund, and Anantnag. Authorities briefly restored traffic during the day, but fresh landslides around 2:30 PM again halted movement.
Late in the evening, partial restoration allowed only stranded vehicles between Banihal and Ramban to move towards safer areas. However, no fresh traffic was permitted from either Jammu or Srinagar side.
🌧️ Heavy Rain, Snowfall Worsen Situation
Heavy rainfall continued across the Jammu region, causing waterlogging in low-lying areas and disrupting normal life. Higher reaches also witnessed fresh snowfall, while several roads including Mughal Road and other hill routes were closed.
The India Meteorological Department has attributed the weather conditions to an active western disturbance, bringing widespread rain, gusty winds, and snowfall in higher altitudes.
⚠️ Flash Flood and Landslide Alert
Authorities have warned of:
Flash floods
Landslides
Shooting stones in hilly areas
People have been advised to avoid travel on the highway until conditions improve and clearance operations are completed.
🌡️ Temperature Drops, Cold Conditions Return
The continuous rainfall has led to a sharp dip in temperatures across the region, creating cold wave-like conditions in several districts.
📅 Weather Outlook
The IMD has predicted:
Continued rain and snowfall till April 10
Light rain/thundershowers on April 9–10
Improvement and dry weather from April 11 onwards
👉 Advisory: Travelers are strongly advised to check traffic updates and avoid unnecessary movement on the highway until it is fully restored.