Srinagar, March 1, 2025 – The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway , a critical lifeline connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India, has been closed for restoration work, officials announced today. Commuters are requested to avoid travelling along the 270-km stretch and wait for the latest updates as authorities work to address the situation.
The closure, effective as of Saturday morning, was prompted by the need for urgent repairs, though specific details about the nature of the restoration work were not immediately disclosed by the National Highway Authority of India . Traffic police officials confirmed that the highway remains shut in both directions, with restoration efforts underway to ensure safe passage for vehicles.
“Jammu-Srinagar NHW is closed for restoration work. We urge commuters to refrain from travelling until the highway is fully restored and updates are provided,” said a spokesperson for the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police. The advisory comes amid ongoing efforts to maintain the highway, which has faced frequent disruptions in the past due to landslides, snowfall, and road damage, particularly in the Ramban and Banihal sectors.
Local authorities have not specified the expected duration of the closure, but restoration work is being prioritized to minimise inconvenience. “Commuters are requested to avoid travelling and wait for the latest updates through official channels,” the spokesperson added, emphasising the importance of patience during this period.
The Jammu-Srinagar NHW, also known as NH-44, serves as the primary artery for goods, essential supplies, and passenger traffic between Jammu and Srinagar. Its closure impacts thousands of travelers daily, including those transporting perishable items like apples from Kashmir to markets across India. Alternate routes, such as the Mughal Road, have not been officially recommended at this time, pending further assessment of their conditions.
Residents and drivers expressed frustration but acknowledged the necessity of the repairs. “We understand the need for restoration, but timely updates would help us plan better,” said Farooq Ahmed, a truck driver stranded near Udhampur.
The closure follows a pattern of seasonal challenges for the highway, with heavy snowfall and rains often necessitating emergency maintenance. As of now, authorities are focused on expediting the restoration work to restore normalcy. Commuters are advised to monitor local news and traffic updates for the latest developments before planning any journeys along the Jammu-Srinagar NHW.