The Traffic Police Headquarters in Jammu and Kashmir has issued a comprehensive traffic advisory for travelers on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) and other key routes, effective from May 22, 2024. This advisory on The Chenab Times outlines traffic management plans, current road conditions, and specific instructions for various types of vehicles.
Recent observations indicate slow movement on NH-44 from 5 PM on May 20 to 5 PM on May 21 due to the breakdown of five heavy motor vehicles (HMVs), the presence of ten nomadic flocks, and single-lane traffic at several points including Dalwas, Mehad, Panthyal, Magerkote, Nachlana, Gangroo, and Shalgarhi. Additionally, the road surface remains poor between Nashri and the NAVYUG Tunnel, contributing to the traffic delays.
Passengers and light motor vehicles (LMVs) are advised to undertake their journeys during daylight hours to avoid inconvenience caused by the movement of nomads towards the Kashmir Valley and the risk of shooting stones between Ramban and Banihal. On May 22, LMVs and private cars will be allowed to travel in both directions on the Jammu-Srinagar NHW, provided the weather is fair and the road conditions are suitable.
For load carriers, including both HMVs and LMVs, operators transporting fresh perishables or livestock should adhere to the advisories issued by the Traffic Police Headquarters and avoid overloading their vehicles. It is also recommended that vehicle operators ensure their vehicles are fit for travel and carry sufficient fuel. HMVs with only six and ten tires will be permitted to use the Dhar road.
Specific traffic plans for May 22 include allowing LMVs from Nagrota (Jammu) between 6 AM and 1 PM, from Jakheni (Udhampur) between 7 AM and 2 PM, and from the NAVYUG Tunnel (Qazigund side) between 6 AM and 1 PM. HMVs will be allowed from Jakheni (Udhampur) towards Srinagar after the passage of LMVs and an assessment of road conditions.
On the Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag NH-244, vehicular movement for LMVs will be allowed from both directions, from Daksum and Chingam (Chatroo) between 9 AM and 1 PM. For the SSG Road, one-way traffic from Srinagar to Kargil will be permitted for LMVs and HMVs from Sonamarg between 6 AM and 11 AM and from Kargil to Sonamarg between 1 PM and 6 PM.
The Mughal Road will be open for vehicles from both sides, with HMVs (up to ten tires) allowed from Poonch towards Srinagar from Behramgalla (Buffliaz) and Herpora (Shopian) between 8 AM and 4 PM, subject to fair weather and road conditions. The Bhaderwah-Chamba road remains open for vehicular movement.
Travelers are strongly advised to confirm the status of the roads before commencing their journeys. They can contact the Traffic Control Units at the following numbers: Jammu (0191-2459048, 0191-2740550, 9419147732, 103), Srinagar (0194-2450022, 2485396, 18001807091, 103), Ramban (9419993745, 1800-180-7043), Udhampur (8491928625), PCR Kishtwar (9906154100), and PCR Kargil (9541902330, 9541902331).
The Chenab Times News Desk