HMVs barred from Jammu-Srinagar highway for airstrip repairs

SRINAGAR — Authorities have announced a temporary suspension of Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway on April 1 and 2 to facilitate repair work on the airstrip at Bijbehara Anantnag.

An official from the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Department revealed that no heavy motor vehicles, particularly load carriers, will be permitted to traverse between Srinagar and Jammu along NH-44 near Bijbehara Anantnag during the specified period.

“The movement of heavy motor vehicles will be suspended on April 1, 2024, from 0400 hrs to 0700 hrs and on April 2, 2024,” the official stated, advising truckers to adjust their travel plans accordingly to ensure smooth progress of repair operations.

“In light of urgent repairs/upgradation of the Airstrip stretch along NH-44 near Bijbehara, Anantnag, no HMVs (Load carrier) shall be allowed from Srinagar towards Jammu and vice-versa on Jammu-Srinagar NHW (NH-44) on April 1, 2024 (Monday) from 0400 hrs to 0700 hrs (Tuesday) on April 2, 2024,” the official announcement reiterated, cautioning truckers to avoid travel on the mentioned dates and times.

In a separate development, authorities have partially restored vehicular movement on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, while urging drivers to exercise caution due to the risk of shooting stones between Ramban and Banihal.

“Traffic update NH-44 at 1030 hrs: Jammu-Srinagar NHW (NH-44) partially restored, stranded vehicles between Nashree and Banihal are being cleared. Commuters are advised to follow lane discipline, drive cautiously as apprehension of shooting stones between Ramban and Banihal,” officials advised.