Srinagar–Jammu highway shut as fresh snowfall halts traffic near Navayug Tunnel,, Mughal, Sinthan and SSG roads also closed

Srinagar, Jan 23, KNT: Traffic movement on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway, NH-44, was completely suspended in both directions early Friday following fresh snowfall in and around the Navayug Tunnel, officials said.

According to an official traffic update, vehicular movement from Jammu towards Srinagar and from Srinagar towards Jammu was halted as snowfall and slippery conditions made the highway unsafe for travel. Authorities said restoration work would begin only after weather conditions improve and the road surface is cleared and assessed for safety.

In addition to the national highway, several other key routes across Jammu and Kashmir were also closed due to fresh snow accumulation. These include the Mughal Road connecting south Kashmir with Rajouri and Poonch, the Srinagar–Sonamarg–Gumri Road, and the Sinthan Road linking Anantnag with Kishtwar. Officials said heavy snowfall in higher reaches led to rapid accumulation, forcing precautionary closures to prevent accidents.

Traffic authorities have advised commuters, transporters and tourists not to undertake travel on these routes until they are officially reopened and declared safe for traffic. People have also been urged to remain cautious and avoid relying on unverified information circulating on social media platforms.

The traffic department has asked the public to check the latest road status only through official channels, including the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police social media handles and Traffic Control Units. The department said timely updates would be shared as restoration work progresses and weather conditions permit reopening.

Helpline numbers for Traffic Control Units in Jammu, Srinagar and Ramban have been activated to assist commuters and provide real-time information regarding road conditions across the region. [KNT]