One-Way Traffic Allowed from Srinagar to Jammu via Poonch
Nazim Ali Manhas
Srinagar, April 21(DD):
As the strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remains under restoration due to massive landslides in Ramban district, authorities have reopened the Mughal Road—a vital alternative route—for light motor vehicles (LMVs) to ease traffic pressure and help stranded commuters.
According to traffic officials, only one-way traffic is currently permitted on the Mughal Road, with vehicles being allowed to move from Srinagar towards Jammu via Poonch.
Commuters are permitted to cross Herpora (Shopian) checkpoint between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
The decision comes in the backdrop of widespread landslide-triggered blockades on NH-44, where heavy rainfall and thunderstorms led to the road caving in at multiple points, including Mehar, Marog, and Kela Morh in Ramban.
“The Mughal Road is being monitored closely. We’ve cleared snow and ensured basic safety for LMVs, but heavy vehicles are still not allowed due to narrow stretches and risk of slipping,” a traffic official said.
Travelers are urged to follow advisories strictly, check weather conditions before setting out, and carry essentials in case of unexpected halts. Authorities have also requested drivers to avoid night travel on the route due to low visibility and falling temperature zones around Pir Ki Gali.
While the Mughal Road serves as a temporary relief, the reopening of the main highway remains crucial for restoring full-scale movement of goods and emergency services between the two regions.(DD)