20 Mar 2023 | 11:40 AM UTC
India: Jammu-Srinagar Highway closed due to landslides in Ramban District, Jammu and Kashmir, March 20
Authorities close Jammu-Srinagar Highway, March 20, due to landslides in Ramban District, Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory, India.
Event
Authorities have closed the Jammu-Srinagar Highway (NH 44) in Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory as of March 20 due to landslides in Ramban District. Mudslides and rockslides have been reported along sections of the highway between Ramban and Udhampur following heavy rainfall overnight March 19-20. Clearance operations are underway, though officials have not clarified when traffic will resume along the arterial highway connecting the region to the rest of India. Congestion is likely on alternative routes in the region due to the highway closure.
Transport disruptions will likely persist through at least March 21. Lingering disruptions are likely even after the NH 44 reopens, as hundreds of vehicles remain stranded on either side of the closed sections. Supply chain disruptions could occur in the event of prolonged closures.
Advice
Monitor local media for updates on road status. Confirm road status and seek alternative routes to reach destinations in the affected area; allow additional travel time. Delivery disruptions are possible; consider delaying or rerouting shipments until road access normalizes. Heed all security personnel instructions.
