Jammu Region: Snowfall Disrupts Highway Connectivity Across, Restoration Efforts Intensify
Jammu Region: Restoration work is continuing at a rapid pace on major highways and interior roads across the Jammu region after heavy snowfall caused widespread disruption for the third consecutive day. Several critical routes, including the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway, remained closed, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded and normal life severely affected in multiple districts.
National Highway Closure and Stranded Vehicles
The Srinagar–Jammu National Highway, a vital all-weather link between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country, remained shut due to continuous snowfall and slippery road conditions. Hundreds of vehicles were stranded near Jakhani in Udhampur district as authorities halted traffic movement for safety reasons. Officials confirmed that snow accumulation and low visibility made travel extremely risky, prompting a complete suspension of vehicular movement on the highway.
Controlled Movement Toward Patnitop
According to traffic officials, limited and regulated movement was temporarily allowed for tourists heading towards Patnitop. Authorities verified hotel bookings and personal identification before permitting travel, ensuring that only confirmed visitors were allowed to proceed. This step was taken to avoid overcrowding and to manage emergency situations in the event of further weather deterioration.
Multiple Roads Remain Inaccessible
Apart from the main highway, several key regional roads continued to remain closed. The road linking Doda and Kishtwar was among those affected, with snow clearance operations underway. The closure of these routes has disrupted inter-district connectivity, impacting the movement of essential supplies and emergency services.
Massive Snow Clearance Operations
Public Works Department teams, supported by heavy machinery, have been deployed across affected areas. Special focus has been placed on snowbound regions such as Bhadra, where narrow and congested roads have posed serious challenges for clearance operations. In some localities, temporary single-lane roads have been created to allow ambulance movement while full-scale restoration work continues on adjacent routes.
Life Comes to a Standstill in Hill Resorts
The famous hill resorts of Jammu province witnessed intense snowfall for the second consecutive night. Areas such as Nathatop, Sanasar, Batote, Banihal, and Gool saw daily life come to a near halt. Markets remained deserted, and many shopkeepers in Batote kept their establishments closed for the second day due to the absence of customers and blocked access roads.
Tourists Enjoy Snow Amid Disruptions
Despite the widespread disruption, tourists, particularly snow enthusiasts, were seen enjoying the fresh snowfall in accessible areas. Children were observed playing snow games, and visitors captured the scenic beauty, even as road closures prevented many from reaching their planned destinations.
Impact on Power, Water, and Communication
The heavy snowfall also disrupted essential services across the region. Power supply and water distribution were affected in several areas, while surface transport and telecommunication services experienced interruptions. Snow-laden power lines and frozen pipelines further compounded the difficulties faced by residents.
Administration Faces Preparedness Challenges
The Ramban district administration appeared underprepared for the sudden intensity of the snowfall. Shortages of snow-clearing machinery and limited manpower from the power and water departments slowed down restoration efforts. Authorities have since been working to mobilize additional resources to restore normalcy as weather conditions improve.