Ishtiyaq Kar
Srinagar, Apr 15 (KNS): The Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police department reported that rainfall led to shooting stones in the Kishtwari Pather area, resulting in a halt of traffic on the vital Jammu-Srinagar national highway.
This 270-kilometer stretch serves as the primary artery connecting Kashmir to the rest of the country. Earlier, a blockage occurred in the Banihal area, but swift action by authorities promptly restored traffic flow.
The onset of rainfall in the Ramban and Banihal areas had raised concerns about shooting stones across various sections of the highway. However, with the cessation of rain this morning, authorities initially permitted traffic movement from both sides of Jammu and Srinagar.
"Unfortunately, around 5 PM, continuous shooting stones at Kishtwari Pather led to a complete halt in traffic", reported a traffic official.
News agency KNS reported that the efforts to mitigate the situation swiftly ensued as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) deployed personnel and machinery to clear the highway.
Instances of light shooting stones from hillocks were also reported from other locations throughout the day. As of late evening, the highway remained impassable to vehicular traffic.
The abrupt interruption left scores of passengers stranded along the route.
Despite the persistent rainfall, authorities mobilized resources to expedite debris clearance and restore operability to the road.
In light of the ongoing situation, authorities have issued advisories urging people to refrain from embarking on journeys along the highway until conditions improve and the road is cleared.
For the latest updates, individuals are encouraged to contact the Traffic Control Units (TCU) at the following numbers:
Jammu: 0191-2459048, 0191-2740550, 9419147732, 103
-Srinagar: 0194-2450022, 2485396, 18001807091, 103
Ramban: 9419993745, 1800-180-7043
Udhampur: 8491928625
As efforts continue to restore normalcy, commuters are advised to exercise caution and remain patient until the highway is deemed safe for travel once again.(KNS)