Massive Landslide Blocks Strategic Uri-Baramulla National Highway; Traffic Halted

Uri March 22, 2026: The vital Uri-Baramulla National Highway (NH-1), which serves as the primary all-weather link between the border town of Uri and the rest of the Kashmir Valley, was completely blocked on Sunday following a massive landslide.

Eyewitnesses reported that a significant portion of a nearby hillock gave way, burying the carriageway under a heavy layer of debris and bringing all vehicular movement to a sudden standstill.

While emergency response teams and heavy machinery were immediately dispatched to the site to begin clearance operations, the incident has sparked renewed public outcry regarding infrastructure safety.

Stranded commuters expressed deep frustration, alleging that the frequent landslides on this specific stretch are the result of poor administrative planning and neglect.

One traveler noted that such recurring blockades are creating a sense of fear among locals, while others pointed out that the lack of casualties was a stroke of luck, as a nighttime collapse could have proven fatal.In response to the growing criticism, a senior official attributed the slope failure to ongoing highway widening and construction activities.

Acknowledging that earth-cutting in hilly terrain inherently increases the risk of landslides, the official maintained that authorities are working to ensure that future excavations are conducted using more scientific and stable methods. He further emphasized that the administration is strictly monitoring the construction work to prevent illegal activities and minimize risks to the public.

As of now, efforts to clear the highway are ongoing, and travelers are advised to check traffic updates before heading toward the Uri-Muzaffarabad stretch.