NH-44 (Srinagar-Jammu) reopens after 20-day closure, easing transport crisis; heavy rains blamed for disruption

Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir — September 18, 2025 Content: After being shut for twenty days, the national highway linking Srinagar to Jammu (NH-44) has finally reopened to traffic today, offering relief to thousands stranded due to the prolonged closure. Vehicles began moving in the “down” direction — that is, transportation from Kashmir towards Jammu — as per the alternate-day schedule still in place for vehicular movement on the highway, given ongoing risks. The closure had stemmed from persistent and heavy rainfall that triggered landslides, road washouts, debris accumulation, and instability along stretches of the route. The rains have battered many parts of the Valley and neighbouring mountainous regions, leading to damage to roads, bridges, and cut-off hamlets. With the highway blocked, critical supplies—especially perishable goods like apples—along with essential services were badly affected. Agricultural produce headed for markets has been stranded, causing losses and acute distress among farmers and traders. The reopening has been met with widespread relief. Truckers, commuters, and supply chain operators who had spent days waiting at staging points expressed optimism that this will mark the start of restoration of normal economic activity in the region. Local businesses dependent on road connectivity—tourism, vendors, transport services—hope that with the highway functional, a return to stability is possible. However, only traffic in one direction is being allowed today, part of a regulated schedule designed to ensure safety while repairs and clearance operations continue along the route. Authorities emphasise that while this reopening is a positive step, many challenges remain. The highway’s condition is fragile in many segments, with debris still present in pits and slopes vulnerable to further landslides. Road maintenance and monitoring crews are being deployed, with geotechnical teams assessing risk zones, reinforcing weak slopes, and clearing drainage channels to prevent renewed blockage. In parallel, the state government has acknowledged the heavy impact of rains in other areas too. In Poonch district’s Kalaban village, nearly 400 residents have been evacuated as ground subsidence and structural cracks threatened inhabitability. Temporary shelters have been set up, and relief measures with food, clean water, and medical aid are underway. The administration has declared the area unsafe till detailed inspections are done. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has stated that this year’s monsoon season has caused significant losses, especially in infrastructure and agriculture. He promised that the government will seek a substantial financial package from the centre to address damage, support displaced families, and repair public assets. While commuters rejoice at the reopening of NH-44, the mood remains cautious: experts warn of more rain in the forecast and advise residents and travelers to remain alert. Restoration works will continue over coming days, and only once safety can be assured will full two-way vehicular movement be permitted.