Srinagar cut off as massive landslide blocks National Highway 44 to Jammu, heavy rains lash region

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A massive landslide blocked the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway 44 on Wednesday cutting off the road link between the two cities. Commuters have been advised not venture on the highway for the next two days as it will take time to clear the road.</p>
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Due to heavy rainfall and the landslide, a 100-metre stretch of the road near Dewal Bridge in Samroli got swept away.  The landslide also took a JCB earth moving machine in its path into the river, said Himmat Singh, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Traffic, Udhampur.</p>
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“No casualties or losses have been reported so far,” Singh said.</p>
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He said the road clearance operations will take at least two days.</p>
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“We appeal to the commuters to avoid travelling on National Highway 44 for two days,” Singh added.</p>
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Meanwhile, low-lying areas of Srinagar got inundated today following incessant rainfall. The water level in Jhelum, Chenab and Tawi rivers of J&K has also risen due to the heavy rainfall.</p>
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The Srinagar district administration has set up a 24×7 Flood Control Room.</p>
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Several districts in J&K, including Doda, Ramban and Kishtwar, are on high alert due to incessant rain. Schools and colleges in the region remained shut as a precautionary measure.</p>