J&K Traffic Advisory: NH-44 Open for LMVs on Both Sides; HMVs Restricted Due to Road Sinking at Kishtwari Pather

JAMMU/SRINAGAR, Feb 05, 2026 – The Traffic Police Headquarters, Jammu & Kashmir, has issued a comprehensive travel advisory for February 6, 2026, noting that while the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remains operational, traffic movement is constrained by several bottlenecks.

Over the last 24 hours, slow vehicular movement was reported due to single-lane traffic between Marog and Kishtwari Pather, compounded by the breakdown of two Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs). Crucially, a 20–30 meter stretch at Kishtwari Pather has been reduced to a single lane following significant road sinking, prompting authorities to allow HMVs to ply only on alternate days to manage congestion.

For Friday, February 6, Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs), passenger vehicles, and private cars will be permitted to travel from both Jammu and Srinagar, subject to fair weather and stable road conditions.

However, HMVs will only be allowed to move from Jakheni (Udhampur) toward Srinagar after a thorough situational assessment, with a strict cutoff time of 1400 hrs.

Meanwhile, major routes including the Mughal Road, Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag (NH-244), and the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) road remain closed due to heavy snow accumulation, with a decision on the Zoji La axis pending clearance from maintenance agencies.

Commuters and LMV operators are strongly advised to travel during daytime hours and avoid night journeys due to the high risk of shooting stones, landslides, and ongoing construction between Ramban and Banihal.

Additionally, recent snow has caused frost formation between Nachlana and the NAVYUG Tunnel, creating dangerously slippery conditions. Authorities have urged drivers to maintain strict lane discipline, as overtaking on narrow stretches will lead to severe gridlocks.

Before beginning any journey, travelers must verify the current road status by contacting the Traffic Control Units (TCUs) in Jammu, Srinagar, Ramban, or Udhampur.