Srinagar-Jammu highway shut again as heavy rains trigger landslides

Srinagar: Continuous heavy rainfall has caused fresh landslides, flash floods, and road blockades across Jammu and Kashmir, forcing the closure of the Srinagar-Jammu highway yet again on Tuesday. The 250-kilometre stretch, the only all-weather road that connects the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, has been shut for traffic between the Samroli and Banihal sectors after incessant rains triggered mudslides and falling rocks.

The closure comes just a day after the highway had been reopened partially following a six-day disruption. Officials said that stranded vehicles, including trucks carrying essential supplies, had been cleared before the fresh suspension of traffic.

“Passenger vehicles have been instructed to go to the bus stand for accommodation and food. Trucks and small vehicles are being stopped here. As soon as the weather improves or the advisory is lifted, movement will be restored. Until then, we urge people to follow the instructions and not travel on their own. The Mughal Road may also be closed at any time,” Traffic officer Maqbool Hussain told ANI.

The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for several districts, including Rajouri, Jammu, Kathua, Poonch, Reasi and Kulgam, warning of very heavy rainfall in the coming days. Authorities have cautioned people to stay away from rivers, streams, and landslide-prone zones until conditions improve.