Jammu Tawi, Jan 28: Normal life across Jammu and Kashmir began returning to track on Wednesday as the 270-kilometre Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was fully reopened for passenger traffic following its temporary closure due to heavy snowfall a day earlier. Air and rail services also witnessed significant improvement, providing much-needed relief to commuters, tourists, and local residents.
Officials said priority was given to clearing light motor vehicles (LMVs) stranded at several points along the highway, particularly near Qazigund, while snow clearance operations are continuing on vulnerable stretches. “Salt and urea were sprinkled at key locations early in the morning to improve road safety,” officials said.
Commuters were advised to maintain lane discipline and avoid overtaking or wrong-lane driving to prevent congestion. Travelers have also been urged to keep themselves updated through Traffic Police social media handles before undertaking journeys.
Meanwhile, flight operations at Srinagar International Airport resumed smoothly. Although a few morning flights experienced minor delays due to poor visibility, officials said that arrivals and departures throughout the day operated normally. They added that food and beverage outlets and retail shops at the airport are fully functional, and the terminal remains warm and passenger-friendly despite the cold weather conditions.
Rail services also played a crucial role in easing travel disruptions caused by adverse weather. The Jammu Division of Northern Railway operated special reserved trains between Katra and Srinagar, adding two additional AC coaches on Wednesday to accommodate 144 extra passengers. Over 1,650 passengers travelled on these special trains, achieving full occupancy and generating record revenue.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu, Uchit Singhal, said that the special trains operated on January 27 and 28 provided vital connectivity to tourists and travellers when road and air services were affected. “More than 3,000 passengers travelled on these special trains over the two days and expressed their gratitude to the railways. The occupancy was over 100 per cent, and revenue increased due to the addition of extra AC coaches,” he said. Singhal added that such initiatives would boost traveller confidence and contribute to increased tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.
On the weather front, the Meteorological Department has predicted that conditions will remain largely dry till the end of January. According to the forecast, light rain or snow is expected at a few places on January 28, while January 29 to 31 is likely to remain generally dry, with cloudy skies towards the evening of January 31. From February 1 to 2, generally cloudy weather with light to moderate rain or snow is expected at scattered places, followed by partly cloudy skies from February 3 to 6.
Authorities have issued advisories urging travellers and transporters to confirm road status before travel. Farmers have been advised to suspend farm operations, while the public has been cautioned against venturing into snowbound and avalanche-prone higher reaches. The J&K Disaster Management Authority has also issued a high-level avalanche warning for areas above 2,000 metres in Bandipora, Ganderbal, and Kupwara.
Meanwhile, Ganderbal Police reported that an avalanche occurred near New Truck Yard, Sonamarg, late Tuesday night. Fortunately, no loss of life or property was reported. Authorities said the situation is being closely monitored and urged the public to strictly adhere to official advisories and prioritise safety.
