Banihal/Srinagar: If you are planning to travel between Jammu and Srinagar on the first day of 2026, here is a crucial update regarding the status of National Highway 44 (NH-44).
With the Meteorological Department predicting fresh snowfall in the higher reaches starting tonight (New Year’s Eve), the J&K Traffic Police has issued a fresh advisory for commuters. While the highway is currently open, conditions may change rapidly due to the predicted weather disturbance.
Here is the detailed traffic plan for tomorrow, January 1, 2026, along with the latest weather warning.
Highway Status: Open but “Slow”
According to the latest communication from the Traffic Control Unit (TCU), vehicular movement on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway is permitted from both sides (Jammu to Srinagar and vice versa) for Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs). However, drivers are warned of slow movement at trouble spots like Dalwas, Mehar-Cafeteria Morh, and Gangroo, where the road condition is single-lane and poor.
- Cut-off Timings:
- From Nagrota (Jammu): 06:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- From Qazigund (Kashmir): 06:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Heavy Vehicles: HMVs will be managed in a regulated manner after assessing road conditions.
Alternate Routes (Mughal Road & SSG)
If you were planning to take the scenic Mughal Road to reach Poonch or Rajouri, cancel your plans.
- Mughal Road: Officially CLOSED for vehicular movement due to snow accumulation at Peer Ki Gali.
- Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road: Closed for winter as the Zojila Pass is unpassable.
Weather Warning: Snowfall Tonight
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a “Weak Western Disturbance” affecting J&K from the night of December 31 to January 1.
- What to Expect: Light to moderate snowfall is expected in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and the Pir Panjal range (including the Jawahar Tunnel area).
- Impact: This could lead to slippery road conditions near the tunnels. Commuters are strictly advised to carry anti-skid chains.
Official Warning on “Shooting Stones”
As reported by Greater Kashmir, the risk of shooting stones (falling rocks) remains high in the Ramban-Banihal sector due to recent frost and thaw cycles. The authorities have requested passengers to travel during daylight hours only and avoid halting in slide-prone zones.
What Happens Next?
- Monitor Updates: If heavy snow occurs at the Navyug Tunnel tonight, traffic might be suspended temporarily tomorrow morning.
- Helpline Numbers: Before leaving, confirm the status by dialing the Traffic Control Unit Ramban: 9419993745.
FAQs
Yes, it is currently scheduled to remain open for two-way traffic, subject to fair weather. Check for real-time updates in the morning.
The IMD predicts mostly cloudy skies for plains like Srinagar, but light rain/snow flurries cannot be ruled out in the early hours of Jan 1.
The IMD predicts mostly cloudy skies for plains like Srinagar, but light rain/snow flurries cannot be ruled out in the early hours of Jan 1.
Yes, the road to Patnitop is open. However, expect huge New Year traffic jams at Chenani-Nashri Tunnel.
Disclaimer
This travel advisory is based on the official Traffic Plan issued by J&K Traffic Police Headquarters and IMD forecasts for Jan 1, 2026. Highway status can change instantly due to landslides or weather.
Also Read:
- Winter Vacation Alert: Jammu Schools & Colleges Closed Till Jan 10 – Official Order
- J&K New Year Alert: Security Tightened, Snowfall Predicted Tonight – Full Details
- Srinagar to Get First State-of-the-Art School for Specially-Abled Children in Kashmir
- Fresh Snow Revives Gulmarg Tourism as Ski Resort Sees Unprecedented Rush
