Fresh Snowfall in Kashmir Keeps Srinagar–Jammu Highway Shut for Third Day
By: Javid Amin | 24 January 2026
Hundreds of Vehicles Stranded as Winter Weather Continues to Isolate the Valley
Highway Closure Enters Third Day
Fresh snowfall across Kashmir has paralysed road connectivity, with the 270-kilometre Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44) remaining closed for the third consecutive day on Sunday.
The highway — the only all-weather road link connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country — has been shut since Friday, January 23, 2026, due to heavy snow accumulation, landslides, and slippery road conditions at multiple stretches.
According to traffic authorities, hundreds of vehicles, including trucks carrying essential supplies and passenger vehicles, remain stranded at Qazigund, Banihal, Ramban, and Udhampur, awaiting clearance.
Snow Clearance Hampered by Fresh Snowfall
Snow clearance and landslide removal operations are being carried out by teams from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and traffic police. However, fresh snowfall in south Kashmir and the Chenab Valley has slowed restoration work.
Officials said the highway cannot be reopened until:
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Snow is cleared from vulnerable stretches
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Landslide-prone zones are stabilised
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Road surface conditions improve to ensure safe movement
Authorities have reiterated that no traffic will be allowed until the route is declared safe.
Fresh Snowfall Across the Valley
Several districts across Kashmir received fresh snowfall, further complicating normal life:
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Srinagar: Light snowfall, slippery roads
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Pulwama, Anantnag: Fresh accumulation affecting local travel
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Kupwara, Baramulla: Moderate snowfall with power disruptions
Popular tourist destinations also saw significant snow:
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Gulmarg and Sonamarg: 2–3 feet of fresh snow, enhancing winter scenery but restricting road access
Avalanche Risk in Higher Reaches
Authorities have issued avalanche warnings for higher-altitude areas, including:
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Gurez
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Kupwara
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Kulgam
Residents and travellers have been advised to avoid movement in avalanche-prone zones until weather conditions stabilise.
Air and Rail Connectivity: Partial Relief
Flights Resume at Srinagar Airport
Air connectivity has provided limited relief:
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Srinagar Airport is operational
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Flights resumed after runway clearance
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Air travel remains the safest option for movement in and out of the Valley
Rail Services Remain Suspended
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The Banihal–Baramulla rail section continues to remain suspended
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Snow accumulation on tracks has led to the cancellation of multiple passenger trains
Rail services are expected to resume only after snowfall subsides and track safety is ensured.
Relief Measures for Stranded Passengers
Authorities have arranged temporary food and shelter facilities for stranded passengers, particularly in Ramban and Banihal. Police and civil administration teams are coordinating efforts to ensure basic amenities until road connectivity is restored.
Travel Advisory in Place
Traffic authorities have urged commuters to:
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Avoid attempting travel on NH-44 until official clearance
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Follow traffic police updates and district advisories
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Use air travel where possible
Officials warned that premature travel attempts could lead to further congestion and safety risks.
Key Takeaway
The continued closure of the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway highlights how Kashmir’s winter weather can isolate the Valley for days, disrupting supply chains, tourism, and daily life. While air connectivity has resumed, road and rail transport remain severely affected, with restoration dependent on weather improvement.
Until conditions stabilise, air travel remains the most reliable option, and authorities are urging patience as clearance operations continue.
