Srinagar: The Srinagar-Jammu highway, the only link connecting Kashmir with the rest of India, has faced frequent blockades, losing 223 days in the last five years, according to ab RTI plea filed by activist MM Shuja.
These disruptions have caused delays for commuters, including students, patients, and traders, significantly impacting lives and livelihoods in the region.
The treacherous 65-kilometre stretch between Banihal and Ramban, prone to landslides and shooting stones, has been the primary cause of closures. Spots like Kela Morh and Panthal Morh remain particularly hazardous.
Kashmiri trade leader Abrar Ahmad highlighted the financial toll on businesses, citing increased logistics costs due to the extended transit time. Meanwhile, Bashir Ahmad Bashir, president of the Parimpora Fruit Market told ETV Bharat that perishable goods such as fruits and vegetables often rot during highway closures, although he acknowledged some improvement this year.
The highway, under expansion into a four-lane route since 2011, remains incomplete. Project director Parshotam Kumar assured told ETV Bharat that construction is progressing, with a completion target of June next year, promising to cut travel time to three hours.
