Jammu: Traffic authorities have cleared the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) for two-way traffic today, January 19, 2026. However, officials have issued a strong advisory cautioning commuters to avoid night travel due to the persistent threat of shooting stones and ongoing construction risks.
According to the official communique from Traffic Police Headquarters J&K, Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) and Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) will be allowed to ply from both sides, subject to fair weather and road conditions.
NH-44 Status: Two-Way Traffic with Cautions
While the highway is open, travellers should expect slower movement. Traffic officials noted that over the last 48 hours, traffic flow was sluggish due to single-lane stretches at Balinalla, Dewal, Nashri-Dalwas, Marog, and Kishtwari Pather, coupled with vehicle breakdowns.
Critical Advisory for Commuters:
- Daytime Travel Only: Passengers and operators are advised to prioritise daytime travel. Night journeys should be avoided as the risk of landslides and shooting stones remains high in the Ramban-Banihal sector.
- Lane Discipline: Overtaking and wrong-lane driving will lead to severe congestion. Commuters must strictly adhere to lane discipline.
Status of Other Major Routes (Strict Restrictions)
While NH-44 is operational, other connecting links face winter restrictions. Please note the specific one-way and equipment rules below:
- Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag (NH-244): CLOSED. Vehicular movement remains suspended due to fresh snow accumulation.
- Mughal Road: Open conditionally. LMVs with mandatory anti-skid chains allowed from both sides (Poonch and Shopian) between 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM, subject to a green signal from road agencies. Vehicles without chains will be turned back.
- Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumari (SSG) Road: Traffic allowed One-Way from Kargil towards Srinagar only (starting from Minamarg).
- Timing: LMVs followed by HMVs (up to 6 tyres) with anti-skid chains can move from Minamarg between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
- Note: No traffic is allowed from Srinagar towards Kargil/Sonamarg today.
Key Highlights
- NH-44 (Highway): Open both ways (Subject to fair weather).
- Sinthan Top: Closed due to snow.
- Mughal Road: Chains MANDATORY; strict timing (10:30 AM – 2:30 PM).
- SSG Road: One-Way (Kargil to Srinagar ONLY).
FAQ: Traffic & Travel Queries
A: The road is open, but authorities strongly advise travelling only during daylight hours due to shooting stone risks at Ramban and Banihal.
A: No. The SSG road is open for one-way traffic from Kargil towards Srinagar only. No vehicles are allowed in the opposite direction.
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AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
Reported by Gowhar Nabi | Edited by Senior Desk
Source Transparency: Information in this article is based on the official “Traffic Plan & Advisory for 19-01-2026” issued by Traffic Police Headquarters, J&K.
Helpline Numbers (Verify before travelling):
- Jammu TCU: 0191-2459048
- Srinagar TCU: 0194-2450022
- Ramban TCU: 9419993745
- Udhampur TCU: 8491928625
Community Question: Do you think the ban on night travel on NH-44 should be made mandatory rather than just an advisory during winter? Let us know in the comments.
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