Jammu-Srinagar NH to remain shut for fourth consecutive day

The Jammu-Srinagar highway will remain closed on Thursday for the fourth consecutive day following fresh snowfall in Bannihal sector, an official said. Although the debris of an avalanche that hit the Jawahar Tunnel has been removed and both tubes made functional, traffic cannot be allowed on the highway as the road has turned slippery, Senior Superintendent of Traffic Police in Kashmir Muzaffar Ahmad Shah told IANS.

"The decision has been taken keeping safety of travellers in mind. A big landslide had also hit the highway in Anokhi Fall area of Ramban district due to incessant rain," Shah said. Intending travellers have been advised not to undertake the journey without contacting the control rooms in Jammu and Srinagar.

The strategic highway is regarded as the lifeline for the landlocked valley as all essential supplies are routed through this road. Closure of the highway especially during the winter months helps hoarders and profiteers hike prices of essentials by creating artificial scarcity.