SRINAGAR: Fresh landslides, mudslides and snowfall disrupted road connectivity in parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, forcing authorities to suspend traffic on both the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and the Bandipora-Gurez road.
Traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was suspended after landslides, mudslides and shooting stones blocked multiple stretches in Ramban district, particularly around the vulnerable Mehad sector, where continuous falling debris rendered vehicular movement unsafe.
Officials said traffic from both Jammu and Srinagar sides has been halted and will remain suspended until the affected stretches are cleared and declared safe for travel.
Men and machinery have been deployed to restore connectivity, while clearance operations are underway. Authorities said the restoration process may take several hours depending on weather conditions and continued movement of stones and debris from the hillsides.
Meanwhile, the Bandipora-Gurez road was closed to all vehicular traffic following fresh snowfall at Razdan Top.
An order issued by the Bandipora district administration directed immediate suspension of traffic on the route until further orders. Officials said snowfall in the higher reaches had adversely affected road conditions on the vital link connecting Gurez Valley with the rest of Kashmir.
The road is considered a lifeline for residents of Gurez and adjoining areas and frequently witnesses weather-related disruptions during adverse conditions.
Authorities said road and weather conditions are being closely monitored and a decision regarding reopening of the route will be taken after a fresh assessment.
Commuters and travellers have been advised to avoid undertaking journeys on the affected routes and follow official traffic advisories before planning travel.
