Inclement Weather: Sgr-Jmu, other highways closed for traffic

The continuous rainfall, landslides and shooting stones have forced the closure of Srinagar-Jammu National Highway on Wednesday while the weatherman here has predicted light to moderate rains till today.As per the latest traffic plan, the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remains completely closed for the vehicular movement.The closure, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO, is attributed to multiple landslides and shooting stones, triggered by incessant rains along the entire stretch of the highway.Also, the status of the Jammu-Pathankot National Highway will be reviewed on August 28, following a fresh assessment of road and weather conditions.The Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag road (NH-244) is also reported to be closed, restricting all forms of traffic.Similarly, the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumari (SSG) road is also shut due to a landslide near Bajri Nallah.The Mughal Road, which serves as a vital alternative route, has also been closed because of the landslides and falling debris.Given the widespread impact of adverse weather on road connectivity, the public is advised to confirm the status of roads before embarking on any journey.“Travelers may contact the respective Traffic Control Units in Jammu, Srinagar, Ramban, Udhampur, Kishtwar and Kargil through the helpline numbers provided by the authorities,” the J&K Traffic Police Headquarters said.Meanwhile, the Meteorological Centre Srinagar has issued a fresh advisory for Jammu and Kashmir, warning of continued rainfall activity and possible weather-related disruptions across several parts of the region.“Over the past 24 hours, extremely heavy rainfall has been recorded at several stations in the Jammu division, while South Kashmir also witnessed heavy showers, leading to waterlogging and potential hazards in vulnerable areas,” the MeT said.According to the latest forecast, the weather on August 27 will remain generally cloudy with intermittent light to moderate rainfall expected at many places, especially in Jammu Division and South & Central Kashmir.However, a brief dry spells with cloudy skies may be observed between rainfall intervals.Moreover, the weather is expected to improve slightly on August 28 and 29, with the possibility of brief spells of rain or thundershowers at isolated locations.“However, a fresh spell of active weather is likely from August 30 to September 1, during which moderate to heavy rain and thundershowers are expected in the Jammu division. The period from September 2 to 5 may again witness scattered showers or thunder activity across the region,” the MeT said.The MeT Centre has issued a public advisory, cautioning residents and travelers about the risks of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones, particularly in the hilly and landslide-prone regions.“People are strongly advised to avoid venturing near water bodies, rivers, Nallas, and unstable structures, as the risk of sudden flooding or collapse remains high,” it added—(KNO)