Deputy Commissioner Ramban, Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, announced a 48-hour traffic shutdown on the Srinagar Jammu National Highway (NH-44) in the coming days to carry out essential repairs and maintenance between Nashri and Banihal.
These repairs aim to ensure smooth traffic flow, particularly for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2024 and tourist season. Chaudhary made this announcement after leading a high-level team, including DIG Traffic Jammu Dr. Haseeb Mughal, on a visit to several critical spots along NH-44 on Tuesday.
The Deputy Commissioner identified 17 critical spots between Nashri and Banihal that require urgent repairs. The team, which also included Senior Superintendent of Police Ramban Anuj Kumar, Senior Superintendent of Police Traffic NHW Ramban Rohit Basotra, and NHAI officials, issued necessary directives to ensure uninterrupted traffic movement.
Chaudhary also reviewed the strategy to expedite the NH-44 four-laning project to provide hassle-free connectivity for Yatris, tourists, passengers, and locals. He mentioned that the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) would soon undertake blacktopping in the Banihal market.
“We are going to announce a 48-hour traffic shutdown on NH-44 in the coming days to carry out repair and maintenance at several places between Nashri and Banihal, including blacktopping of the highway passing through Banihal town,” said Chaudhary.
Additionally, the Deputy Commissioner discussed comprehensive security arrangements and emphasized increasing the staying capacity in Yatri Niwas and shelter sheds. He assured that the district administration, working as a cohesive team, would ensure all arrangements are in place well in time for the Yatra and tourist season.
