JAMMU: In view of frequent disruptions on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) due to inclement weather, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, today, convened a high-level meeting to review restoration measures, assess supply chain management, and ensure seamless movement of essential commodities across Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary, Home; Principal Secretary, Public Works Department (PWD); Commissioner Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA); Divisional Commissioner, Jammu/Kashmir; IG, Traffic; Director, FCS&CA Kashmir; Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur/Doda; and representatives from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
The Chief Secretary sought a detailed appraisal from the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu regarding the present status of NH-44. He was informed about the partial restoration of traffic on a single-lane stretch that had been severely damaged by flash floods, as well as diversion of vehicular movement through Mughal Road.
The Chief Secretary also took note of the number of vehicles crossing daily and emphasized the need to expedite restoration works so that traffic flows smoothly on both lanes in the shortest possible timeframe. He directed that the restoration process be closely monitored at the divisional and district levels, with daily reports to be submitted on both traffic movement and progress of repair works.
Acknowledging the critical importance of NH-44 as the lifeline of J&K, the Chief Secretary stressed the need to prioritize movement of trucks carrying essential commodities. He instructed that fruit-laden trucks from the Valley, vehicles carrying perishable food items from Jammu, and petroleum and LPG tankers be given precedence to prevent any shortage of supplies.
Taking stock of the availability of fuel and foodgrains in the valley, the Chief Secretary was assured by the Commissioner Secretary, FCS&CA that the stock position was comfortable and sufficient. It was further informed that additional supplies of petroleum products and essential foodgrains have started reaching the valley since the partial reopening of the highway.
The Chief Secretary also reviewed the arrangements for transportation of apple produce through parcel trains from the Valley to markets outside J&K. He instructed the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir to ensure that produce from all apple-growing areas is ferried smoothly through this rail link.
He further directed that fruit growers and traders be provided full assistance so that they can transport their produce without any hindrance, thereby safeguarding their economic interests during this harvesting season.
Reiterating the urgency of fully restoring NH-44, the Chief Secretary impressed upon the NHAI to mobilize all available resources and ensure completion of repair and restoration works within the shortest possible time. He emphasized that meticulous use of every working hour was essential, given the highway’s critical role as the primary connectivity corridor linking Kashmir with the rest of the country.
The Chief Secretary also called upon the concerned Deputy Commissioners to personally oversee restoration activities in their respective jurisdictions and maintain constant communication with traffic authorities and divisional administrations to ensure coordinated efforts on the ground.
While acknowledging the role of alternate routes such as Mughal Road in mitigating disruptions, Dulloo underscored that the complete and swift restoration of NH-44 remains our foremost priority.
