Mughal Road becomes the sole supply route amid NH-44 disruption
Jammu, Sept 16: With the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) closed for nearly 10 days following heavy damage at Tharad near Udhampur, the historic Mughal Road has once again emerged as the Valley’s lifeline, ensuring uninterrupted supply of essentials. The highway is partially restored for light vehicles, but heavy traffic remains dependent on the Mughal Road.
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Supply Chain Shifted to Mughal Road
Thousands of trucks carrying food grains, vegetables, fuel, and other vital commodities are now using the 90-kilometre stretch that links Shopian in South Kashmir with Rajouri and Poonch districts in Jammu division. This shift has prevented a full-scale supply crisis, offering temporary relief to residents and traders.
Challenges on the Mountainous Route
The sudden surge in traffic has highlighted the limitations of the Mughal Road. Narrow stretches, sharp curves, and the single-direction movement of heavy vehicles on alternate days have led to prolonged traffic jams, especially around Pir Ki Gali. Damage in the Kalidhar belt and lack of adequate traffic regulation have further aggravated commuter hardships.
Call for Upgradation
Experts and stakeholders argue that the situation underscores the urgent need to upgrade the Mughal Road into a four-lane highway with tunnel connectivity. Such an upgrade would transform the road into a dependable, all-weather alternative to the vulnerable Jammu-Srinagar Highway, boosting the region’s economy and preventing recurring losses to Kashmir’s fruit industry.
Need for Parallel Development
Alongside the Mughal Road, the Jammu-Poonch Road is also witnessing increased traffic pressure. Authorities are being urged to expand it into a four-lane corridor to strengthen regional connectivity. Together, the four-laning of Mughal and Jammu-Poonch roads could establish a robust and sustainable network, reducing dependence on a single arterial highway.
As convoys struggle through Mughal Road’s difficult terrain, the route stands as both a symbol of resilience and a reminder of the pressing infrastructure needs of Jammu and Kashmir. Stakeholders, particularly transporters and fruit growers, await concrete steps from the government to modernize this vital link.
Source: Agencies
Labels: Jammu, Kashmir, Mughal Road, National Highway
Tags: #MughalRoad #NHClosure #Kashmir #Connectivity #FruitGrowers
Disclaimer: This article is a rewritten summary based on reporting by Agencies. Jammu News Portal does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of external content.
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