Srinagar, Feb 26: Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Department announced that only one-way traffic would be permitted on the Srinagar-Jammu highway due to forecasts of rain and snow in the region. According to officials, the highway remained blocked for 1 hour and 45 minutes in the past 24 hours, with slow movement observed in various areas. Passengers and operators are advised to travel during the day and avoid night time journeys due to potential shooting stones. Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) operators are urged to avoid overloading and ensure vehicle fitness and sufficient fuel. Only vehicles with 06 and 10 tyres will be allowed on the Dhar road. Additionally, due to road conditions, only one-way traffic from Jammu to Srinagar will be permitted until the road is cleared.
Meanwhile, Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri highway and Mughal road remain closed due to snow accumulation. Two western disturbances are expected to impact the region from February 27, bringing rain and snow throughout the first week of March. Director MeT, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, stated that light to moderate rain/snow is expected in most places, with heavy precipitation in some areas and the possibility of thunderstorms and hailstorms.
Following two months of dry weather, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed its first significant rain and snowfall between February 18 and 20, although there has been a deficit in precipitation overall this winter.
