Srinagar: The strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained closed for the second consecutive day on Friday due to landslides and shooting stones triggered by continuous rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir.
At the same time, all major religious pilgrimages, including the Shri Amarnath Yatra, Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra and Shiv Khori Yatra, remained suspended for the sixth consecutive day due to adverse weather conditions and safety concerns.
Landslides Block Highway Movement
Officials said intermittent landslides and shooting stones at multiple locations along NH-44 have disrupted traffic movement.
Clearance operations are underway, but authorities have not yet declared the highway safe for commuters.
People have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and check official updates before starting their journey.
Special Train Operated for Stranded Passengers
With road connectivity affected, Northern Railways operated a special train between Srinagar and Katra to help stranded passengers.
Around 600 tourists travelled from Srinagar to Katra through the special service, which departed from Srinagar railway station at 5.10 pm and reached Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra station at 8.15 pm.
Railway officials said the service was arranged to ensure safe travel for passengers, especially those having onward connections from Katra and Jammu Tawi.
Major Yatras Remain Suspended
The suspension of religious pilgrimages began after weather alerts issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Heavy rainfall, cloudbursts, flash floods and mudslides have affected several areas, making pilgrimage routes unsafe.
Thousands of devotees remain stranded at various base camps, including:
- Pahalgam
- Baltal
- Jammu
- Katra
Authorities have continued providing food and shelter facilities for pilgrims until weather conditions improve and routes are restored.
Officials said Yatra movement will resume only after receiving weather clearance and ensuring the safety of tracks and routes.