Srinagar: Traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has been temporarily halted due to a landslide in the Mehad area of Ramban. The landslide has blocked the route, and authorities are currently working to clear the debris. Drivers are urged to follow alternative routes as efforts continue to manage the situation.
The region is experiencing challenging weather conditions, with Banihal’s mountains blanketed in snow following yesterday’s snowfall. The minimum temperature in the area was recorded at 3°C, with a maximum expected to reach 15°C.
In Bhaderwah, rainfall continues, and the city is covered in low-hanging clouds. The rain, combined with the snow-capped mountains, has created a picturesque landscape in Doda, enhancing the area’s beauty.
Srinagar is also enduring the ongoing winter chill, with temperatures remaining low and the city continuing to feel the effects of the cold weather.
CHVS Reddy, a tourist from Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, spoke about the cold weather and the warmth of the local people: “We are unable to stand because of the cold. We will never forget this place and send our people and family again and again. People here in Kashmir are very friendly and nice. Next time, we are going to plan with our families.”
Inaugural blast for Bhimber Gali tunnel to boost connectivity
Meanwhile, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) conducted the inaugural blast for the construction of the 1.1-kilometer-long Bhimber Gali Tunnel on National Highway 144A. The ceremony was led by Brig Neeraj Madan, Chief Engineer of Project Sampark.
The BRO stated, “The inaugural blast for the 1.1 km Bhimber Gali Tunnel on NH-144A was conducted today by Brig Neeraj Madan, CE Project Sampark. This key BRO project will cut 10.8 km from the highway, boosting connectivity between Rajouri and Poonch for civilians and the Army.”
Prime Minister Modi inaugurates Sonamarg tunnel
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Sonamarg Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir, which is expected to significantly improve connectivity and tourism in the region. PM Modi lauded the resilience of the labourers involved in the project, saying, “Despite the challenges, our resolve did not waver.”
He also condoled the loss of seven labourers during the tunnel’s construction. The Prime Minister highlighted that the tunnel was a long-standing demand of the people of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, and noted that it will ease life for people in Sonamarg, Kargil, and Leh
PM Modi further explained that the construction of the Sonamarg Tunnel began in 2015 after their government came to power and that the project was completed under their administration.
