NH-44 Still Closed on 6th Day; Kishtwar-Anantnag Road Reopened as Alternate Route

Jammu, Sept 7: The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained sealed for the sixth consecutive day between Udhampur and Chenani, disrupting traffic between Kashmir and Jammu. Restoration efforts continue at a war-footing, but relentless rains and instability at the Tharad landslide site are delaying progress. Meanwhile, the Kishtwar–Anantnag alternate route has been reopened, offering much-needed relief to stranded commuters.

Restoration Hampered by Weather

A buried stretch of about 250 metres at Tharad remains blocked under a landslide. Heavy machinery and controlled blasting are in use, but intermittent rains are repeatedly setting back gains made during prior efforts. Officials warn travellers to continue avoiding the highway for now.

Kishtwar-Anantnag Route Reopens

Authorities reopened the Kishtwar–Anantnag road — which had been inaccessible in recent days — to provide an alternate corridor for emergency and essential travel between districts. This connection has brought relief to many who remained stranded.

Wider Impact and Relief Measures

The prolonged closure of NH-44, the sole all-weather link between Kashmir and the rest of India, has affected the movement of essential commodities, including perishable produce, fuel, and medical supplies. Authorities, including the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), are working to bypass the damaged sections and consider temporary detour options where feasible.

Weather Outlook & Safety Appeal

Weather forecasts predict ongoing light to moderate rainfall, possibly delaying restoration further. The administration has appealed to travellers to postpone non-essential journeys and rely on alternate routes until the highway is confirmed safe.

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Source: Daily Excelsior (Read original)

Labels: NH-44 Closure, Jammu-Srinagar Highway, Landslide Blockage, Alternate Routes, Traffic Updates

Tags: #NH44 #Landslide #RoadClosure #AlternateRoute #KishtwarAnantnag #DailyExcelsior

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