Ramban/Banihal: For travelers asking, “Is the Srinagar-Jammu Highway open tomorrow?” the answer is conditional. As of Saturday evening (Jan 24), the J&K Traffic Police have confirmed that while snow clearance is in its final stages, the highway will likely not be thrown open for fresh traffic immediately on Sunday morning (Jan 25).
The “Stranded First” Strategy
According to Deputy Superintendent of Police (Traffic National Highway, Banihal), S.P. Singh, over 2,000 vehicles are currently stranded between Ramban and Banihal due to the recent closure.
- Priority Plan: The immediate goal for Sunday is to clear this backlog of stranded trucks and passenger vehicles toward their destinations.
- Fresh Traffic: Fresh movement from Jammu (Nagrota) or Srinagar (Qazigund) will likely be restricted until the road is fully decongested. Allowing new vehicles now would cause massive gridlock on the slippery, single-lane stretches at Ramsoo.
Current Road Conditions
- Banihal Sector: Snow has been cleared, but the road remains extremely slippery due to icing. Agencies are actively sprinkling salt and urea to melt the frozen layer.
- Shooting Stones: The Mehar and Cafeteria Morh stretches are stable, but drivers are warned of potential falling debris as the sun comes out and melts the snow binding the rocks.
Key Highlights: Jan 25 Advisory
- Status: RESTRICTED (High probability of “Stranded Traffic Only”).
- Advisory: Do not leave your home or hotel in Srinagar or Jammu without dialing the Traffic Control Unit (TCU) first.
Traffic Control Unit Numbers:
- Jammu TCU: 0191-2459048
- Srinagar TCU: 0194-2450022
- Ramban TCU: 9419993745
FAQ Section
A: It is highly risky. Fresh traffic will likely be stopped at Nagrota/Udhampur to allow stranded vehicles to pass.
A: Caution advised. Monday is Republic Day. Even if the road is clear, security arrangements often lead to strict checking and convoy movements, which can slow down civilian traffic significantly. Check the official advisory on Sunday evening before planning.
A: With weather conditions improving, flight operations at Srinagar Airport are expected to resume on Sunday. However, check with your airline as backlogs may cause delays.
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AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
- Reported by: KittoNews Desk
- Edited by: Senior Desk
- Source Transparency: “Traffic updates based on confirmed statements by DSP Traffic National Highway (Banihal) S.P. Singh and J&K Traffic Police Control Room (Jan 24).”
- Community Question: “Are you stuck in the Ramban jam? Share your location in the comments to assist other travelers.”
- Accountability Footer: “Found an error? Email kittonews@gmail.com.”
