Srinagar, Sept 11: In a significant security development, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, V K Bidhuri on Monday said that authorities were likely to allow a hassle-free movement of fruit laden trucks and general public traffic along the 270-km long Srinagar-Jammu highway as a significant improvement in the security situation has been witnessed in the recent years.
Addressing the media persons in Srinagar, Bidhuri said that in the past authorities had implemented a system of permitting the movement of convoys and non-convoy traffic on Srinagar-Jammu NH based on alternating odd and even schedules.
“Following a comprehensive assessment of the road’s security conditions by the esteemed Chief Secretary of J&K, Dr. Arun Kumar Mehta, it has been decided to extend the benefits of this revised situation to the general public,” he said.
Div Com Bidhuri said following the deadly terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Lethpora, Pulwama on February 14, 2019, the SOP to halt traffic was implemented and there was no divider on the highway at that time.
“Now, the security situation has significantly improved, and security agencies will soon make a decision after considering all aspects,” he added.
“However, with the significant improvement in the security scenario along the Srinagar-Jammu highway in recent years, the decision has been revisited, and the authorities are now allowing the free movement of fruit-laden trucks and the general public. This change in policy came after Chief Secretary J&K reviewed the road situation,” Div Com said.
Regarding the halting of traffic on the highway for short durations, he stated that security agencies are evaluating the highway’s situation, considering both security and the convenience of the public.
