Traffic Halted on NH-44 Udhampur-Chenani Stretch for Slope Stabilization Works

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UDHAMPUR, July 30, 2026 – The District Magistrate Office of Udhampur has ordered a complete suspension of traffic movement on the Udhampur-Chenani section of NH-44 for July 31, 2026, to carry out urgent slope stabilization and restoration work near Ladha, Samroli.

Incessant rainfall since July 18, 2026, has caused repeated landslides, mudslides, and continuous falling debris on vulnerable hill slopes, posing serious risks to commuters and maintenance crews. Issued by Additional District Magistrate Prem Singh under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, the temporary shutdown will allow the National Highways Authority of India to deploy heavy machinery to clear overhanging debris and safely widen the hillside carriageway.

Police and traffic authorities across Udhampur and Ramban have been directed to enforce strict traffic regulation, setup necessary diversions, and install warning signages at vulnerable points.

NHAI field teams, emergency response units, ambulances, and disaster management resources will remain on standby to ensure safe and expeditious completion of the restoration work. Authorities have advised commuters to plan their journeys accordingly and stay updated through official advisories while the highway undergoes critical maintenance.