Ramban, May 8, 2025, 0730 hrs: The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), a vital artery connecting Kashmir to Jammu and beyond, was closed in both directions early this morning due to a massive mudslide at Chamba Seri, Ramban district. Triggered by relentless rainfall, the blockage has stranded commuters and halted all vehicular movement, with authorities urging travelers to avoid the route until the highway is cleared and weather conditions stabilize.
The mudslide, reported at 0730 hrs, has buried sections of NH-44, a 250-km stretch critical for transporting goods and passengers between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India. The Ramban area, notorious for its susceptibility to landslides and flash floods, has seen recurring disruptions on this strategic highway, with similar incidents disrupting traffic earlier in 2025. Persistent rainy weather has complicated ongoing road clearance efforts led by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and Traffic Police.
Hundreds of vehicles, including trucks carrying essential supplies, remain stuck at key points like Garnai Check Naka in Udhampur district. Officials estimate that clearing the debris could take several hours, depending on the intensity of the rainfall and the extent of the damage. The Chamba Seri stretch, a known trouble spot, has raised renewed concerns about the highway’s resilience during the monsoon season.
Traffic Advisory:
The Traffic Police have issued a stern advisory, asking commuters to refrain from traveling on NH-44 until further notice. For updates, travelers can reach out to:
- Jammu TCU: 0191-2459048, 9419147732, 103
- Srinagar TCU: 0194-2450022, 18001807091, 103
- Ramban Control Room: 9419993745, 1800-180-7043
- Udhampur Contact: 8491928625
Commuters are encouraged to monitor official Traffic Police announcements via social media for real-time updates. Authorities emphasize prioritising safety as the region braces for continued adverse weather.
