Landslides halt traffic on Srinagar highway

Arjun Sharma

Jammu, February 1

The snowfall and rain disrupted the traffic flow on the Jammu-Srinagar highway and also affected the power supply in many areas, especially the upper reaches. The traffic on the highway came to a standstill due to landslides and shooting stones in many areas.

Hundreds of vehicles of tourists and local residents going towards Kashmir were stranded in Udhampur. Power supply in many areas of Doda and Kishtwar was snapped due to heavy snowfall in higher reaches. A major portion of the road was damaged near Sherbibi on the Jammu-Srinagar highway in Ramban district. A major landslide occurred in the area, causing damage to the highway. On the other hand, shooting stones were also reported at T2 in Ramban and multiple locations. Heavy snowfall was reported between Ramsoo and Banihal in Ramban. Traffic police officials said restoration work was going on in Kishtwari Pather, near Sherbibi.

Bidhuri reviews valley’s situation

• Kashmir's Divisional Commissioner Vijay Kumar Bidhuri reviewed the post-snowfall situation across all districts, asking for early clearance of snow from roads.
• He took strong note of the Boniyar accident in Uri that resulted in loss of eight lives and injuries to seven. The DCs were asked to take action against overloading.
• Bidhuri also issued directions to ensure filling of potholes to prevent future mishaps. He examined status of power and water supply in remote areas.

The police advised the commuters not to start their journey on the highway before checking the status from the traffic police units. Hundreds of vehicles were stuck at Jakhani in Udhampur due to the closure of the highway. These vehicles were stuck till late evening. On the other hand, the Doda administration stated that it managed to clear snow from all the roads of the district and maintained amenities like water and power supply, availability of food, fuel and cooking gas. “There are chances of fresh snow and rains. Therefore, people are advised to avoid unnecessary travelling and refrain from going near rivers and nullahs. Furthermore, the people living in the areas exposed to avalanches and slides should take extra care and remain vigilant,” it stated.

Meanwhile, Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited has been working to restore power in the affected areas of Doda and Kishtwar districts. Doda town’s main power feeder was damaged due to landslide and heavy snowfall in Gadi and Bhagwah. An official said the water supply to Doda town would remain affected due to absence of power.

Snowfall also occurred near the hills of Vaishno Devi shrine. The meteorological centre, Srinagar, has predicted generally dry weather with possibility of very light snow at isolated higher reaches. Light to moderate snow and rain are expected in many places.

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