Nation

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Ramban, April 6: Traffic movement came to a complete halt on the strategic Jammu–Srinagar National Highway after a major landslide struck the route in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district on Sunday night.

Continuous rockfall and debris were reported between the Karol Bridge and the Chandarkot area along Jammu Srinagar National Highway, a vital arterial road that connects the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country. The landslide triggered heavy accumulation of stones, mud, and debris on the highway, blocking both lanes and disrupting vehicular movement from both directions.

Authorities said that the incident occurred late Sunday night amid unstable weather and hilly terrain conditions in Jammu and Kashmir. The sudden rockfall created dangerous driving conditions, prompting immediate suspension of traffic as a precautionary safety measure.

Officials confirmed that no casualties have been reported so far. However, given the scale of the debris and the risk of further rockfall, the affected stretch of the highway has been closed until clearance operations are completed. Restoration work is currently underway, with road maintenance teams and heavy machinery deployed at the site to remove the accumulated debris and stabilize the slope.

The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway is considered a lifeline for the region, frequently used for the transportation of essential goods, fuel supplies, and passenger travel. Any disruption on this route significantly impacts connectivity and supply chains between Jammu and Srinagar.

Authorities have advised commuters to avoid travel on the highway until further notice and to follow official traffic advisories. Continuous monitoring of the vulnerable stretch is being carried out to ensure safe and early resumption of vehicular movement.