Landslide hits Jammu-Srinagar highway, heavy damage as rocks fall; NH-44 completely closed

Srinagar (The Uttam Hindu): Traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has been suspended on Monday after landslides and falling rocks caused major disruption in Ramban district. Authorities confirmed that vehicular movement has been halted in both directions—from Jammu to Srinagar and vice versa.

According to officials, the stretch between Karol Bridge and Chanderkot has been completely blocked due to debris and boulders falling from the hills.

Advisory issued, commuters asked to avoid travel

In an official statement, the traffic department advised people not to travel on NH-44 until restoration work is completed.

Authorities urged commuters to avoid rumors and check real-time updates from the traffic department before planning any journey.

Lifeline highway still critical for supplies

The Srinagar-Jammu highway remains a crucial lifeline for the Kashmir Valley, especially for essential supplies. Despite rail connectivity being operational between Jammu and the Valley, most goods such as LPG, meat, and poultry are still transported via this route.

Although train services have improved all-weather connectivity, regular freight operations for goods transport are yet to be fully utilized, keeping dependence on the highway high.

Vulnerable stretch continues to face disruptions

While infrastructure upgrades like tunnels, bridges, and flyovers have reduced travel time between Srinagar and Jammu from around 10 hours to nearly five hours, the Ramban–Ramsu stretch remains the most vulnerable.

Frequent rainfall in this region often triggers landslides, mudslides, and rockfalls, leading to repeated disruptions in traffic movement.

Economic impact seen in previous years

In 2025, repeated highway closures caused significant losses to fruit growers in the Valley, as trucks carrying produce to national markets remained stranded.

Railway authorities have recently held discussions with stakeholders to introduce dedicated freight services for transporting fruits. Once implemented, this move is expected to provide much-needed support to Kashmir’s horticulture sector.