Jammu-Srinagar NH-44 remains closed as snowfall disrupts roads, power and flights

The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained closed for the second straight day on Saturday after heavy snowfall made road conditions dangerously slippery, officials said.

Snow continued to fall across several parts of the Jammu division for the second consecutive night, bringing daily life to a standstill in key hill destinations and remote areas. Patnitop, Banihal, Nathatop, Sanasar, Batote, and Gool were among the worst affected.

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While the weather cleared briefly during the day, offering a sunny spell, restoration work remained slow. Authorities said the sunshine could help resume power, water supply and traffic movement once conditions stabilise.

Snowfall disrupts roads, power and markets across Ramban and Doda

In the Ramban district, the closure of NH-44 and NH-244 left markets deserted for a second day. With roads blocked and customers unable to reach the area, several shopkeepers in Batote kept their shutters down.

Remote tehsils including Batote, Banihal, Gool, Ukhral and Rajgarh remained cut off from the district headquarters. Officials admitted that the district administration was not fully prepared for the intensity of the snowfall. Road-clearing machines were limited, and staff from the Jammu Power Development Corporation Ltd and the Jal Shakti department were stretched thin.

The snowfall, while welcomed by tourists, caused widespread disruption. Visitors stranded short of Patnitop were seen enjoying the snow, with children playing outdoor games. But the same snowfall damaged electricity lines, interrupted water supply and affected telecommunications.

Authorities said that traffic on NH-44 was halted at safer locations up to Ramsoo as a precaution. Movement had already been stopped earlier at Jakhani Chowk in Udhampur after heavy rain and snow on Friday.

Air travel was also affected. Srinagar Airport and IndiGo Airlines announced the temporary suspension and cancellation of several flights due to adverse weather.

In the Bhalesa area of Doda district, snowfall continued for over 24 hours. The Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Gandoh, on behalf of the district administration, advised residents to stay indoors as temperatures fell below zero.

Officials said around one foot of snow was recorded in the plains, while the upper reaches received nearly two to three feet. Roads, including highways and internal link roads, remain blocked due to snow accumulation, landslides, and fallen trees. Only emergency services are being allowed until conditions improve.