J&K highway ban to be lifted on May 27

Jammu, May 21

The administration today announced complete lifting of traffic restrictions on the Jammu-Srinagar highway from May 27.

The decision came after Governor Satya Pal Malik reviewed the security situation in the state, besides requirements of security forces’ convoys.

“After a detailed review in connection with preparations for the Amarnath Yatra, the Governor has directed that there should be no restriction on civilian movement on National Highway-44 from Monday,” a spokesperson said.

The restrictions came into force on April 3 against the backdrop of frequent fidayeen attempts to target convoys of security forces, especially after an attempt to repeat a Pulwama-like attack at Banihal on March 30. 

It was decided that the restrictions would continue till May 31. “The restrictions had become necessary due to the movement of security forces on an unprecedented scale after the Pulwama terror attack. Forces were required both for anti-militancy operations and smooth conduct of General Election,” the spokesperson said.

To facilitate safe movement of convoys, civilian traffic on NH-44 from Baramulla to Udhampur was banned on Sundays and Wednesdays from 4 am to 5 pm. 

Earlier, the restriction between Srinagar and Baramulla on NH-44 was limited to Sunday with effect from April 22 and later completely lifted from May 2. Restrictions on Srinagar-Udhampur stretch were limited to just one day from May 13. — TNS