Banihal (Jammu), March 1: Authorities have accelerated restoration work on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway following improved weather conditions, officials reported on Saturday.
The crucial highway, connecting Kashmir Valley to the rest of India, was closed on Friday due to heavy snowfall and multiple landslides, particularly affecting Ramban district.
According to officials, a section of the road near Mehar collapsed, while a significant landslide blocked one tube of the Kunfer-Peerah tunnel. Traffic movement was initially halted from both sides on Thursday evening after heavy rainfall triggered mudslides, landslides, and shooting stones at various locations including Kishtwari Pather, Panthiyal, Mehar, and Dalwas. Moreover, heavy snowfall between Qazigund and Ramsu resulted in slippery road conditions, increasing safety risks.
Restoration efforts faced delays on Friday as continuous rainfall complicated repair activities. However, officials stated that work picked up pace significantly on Saturday morning as the weather cleared up.
Authorities anticipate completing restoration by Saturday evening, with expectations that the arterial highway will reopen for traffic on Sunday. The reopening of this critical route is eagerly awaited, given its importance for transportation and supply chains between the Valley and the rest of the country.
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