Jammu, Sept 2: Traffic movement on the strategic Jammu-Srinagar national highway was suspended yet again on Tuesday after heavy rains triggered mudslides and shooting stones at multiple locations, officials said.
The 250-km-long highway, considered the lifeline of the Kashmir Valley and the only all-weather road connecting it with the rest of the country, was rendered unsafe following incessant rains between Samroli and Banihal sectors. A traffic police official said vehicular movement was halted as a precautionary measure owing to the inclement weather and forecast of more downpour.
According to the meteorological department, moderate to heavy rains are expected across Jammu division on September 2 and 3, with “possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall over Kathua, Jammu, Udhampur and Reasi, and moderate to heavy showers over Doda, Samba, Rajouri, Poonch, Ramban, and Kishtwar districts.” In south Kashmir, Anantnag and Kulgam may also experience heavy spells.
The department further warned of cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides and stone shooting at vulnerable spots, urging residents and travelers to avoid water bodies and landslide-prone areas.
The highway had reopened partially on Monday after remaining shut for six consecutive days. Most of the stranded traffic, including trucks carrying essential supplies for the Valley, was cleared.
Meanwhile, heavy downpour continued in several parts of Jammu region. Kathua recorded the highest rainfall in the past 24 hours with 25.2 mm, followed by Jammu (17.8 mm), Batote in Ramban (17.6 mm), and Katra (15.8 mm). In Kashmir, Qazigund received 23.2 mm of rainfall, while Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Srinagar also recorded significant precipitation.
However, conditions eased in the Valley as the rains subsided before dawn on Tuesday, giving way to clear skies and bright sunshine in the morning.
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