SRINAGAR — While fresh snowfall in Gulmarg and Sonamarg has brought smiles to tourists ringing in 2026, it has triggered travel chaos for locals. As of this morning (January 2), the Traffic Police Headquarters has issued a critical advisory for all commuters planning to travel between Jammu and Srinagar.
If you are planning to hit the road today, read this first.
NH-44 Status: Open, But Risky
The 270-km Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) is officially OPEN for vehicular movement from both sides. However, authorities have strongly advised “Daytime Travel Only” for Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs).
- The Problem: Traffic is moving at a snail’s pace at critical spots like Banihal, Dewal, Nashri-Dalwas, and Marog.
- The Reason: Single-lane stretches due to ongoing construction and the breakdown of heavy trucks have created bottlenecks.
- Night Risk: The advisory explicitly warns against night travel, as heavy motor vehicle (HMV) convoys move between the Nashri and Navyug tunnels after dark, which could leave private cars stranded for hours in freezing temperatures.
Road Closures: Do Not Attempt These Routes
While NH-44 is limping along, all alternative routes to the Valley are completely CLOSED due to fresh snow accumulation over the last 24 hours.
- Mughal Road (Shopian-Poonch): Closed.
- Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road: Closed (Zojila axis is snowbound).
- Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag Road: Closed.
Authorities have confirmed that snow clearance operations will only begin once the weather improves significantly.
Weather Forecast: Dry but Chilled
The Meteorological Department (MeT) has some relief in store.
- Today (Jan 2) to Jan 5: The weather is expected to remain generally dry across J&K.
- Temperature: While days will be sunny, expect a sharp drop in night temperatures. The “cloud cover” that kept nights warm is lifting, meaning the famous Chillai Kalan cold will bite harder starting tonight.
Utility: Important Traffic Helplines
Before starting your engine, it is highly recommended to call the Traffic Control Unit (TCU) for real-time updates. Save these numbers:
- Jammu: 0191-2459048 / 9419147732
- Srinagar: 0194-2450022 / 1800-180-7091
- Ramban: 9419993745
- Udhampur: 8491928625
FAQs: Travel Guide
A: Yes, but start early. Avoid traveling after 4:00 PM to escape the heavy truck convoys.
A: Patnitop has received light traces, but the road is clear. Nathatop and nearby higher reaches have better snow accumulation.
A: Unlikely to reopen soon. Heavy snow at Peer Ki Gali usually keeps this road shut for weeks during January.
Disclaimer: Road status can change within minutes due to shooting stones or landslides. Please verify with TCU before leaving home.
