Landslides in J&K Due to Heavy Rain: Roads Blocked

Dubela, Chhoyee Ghosh (Edited By Prinona Ghosh): Traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH44), a vital road connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India, came to a complete halt on the morning of May 8 due to severe weather conditions. Continuous rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district caused landslides and falling rocks, leading to major travel disruptions. Many commuters were stranded because the road was blocked, officials reported.

The highway became impassable after heavy rains triggered multiple landslides, falling boulders, and a sudden flash flood in the Ramban market area. Several parked vehicles were damaged, but no injuries or deaths were reported. Traffic was suspended around 7:30 a.m. on Thursday as weather conditions worsened along the route. The affected stretch is between Seeri and Nachlana in Ramban district, with a large landslide near Chamba-Seeri and flash flood damage near a hotel in Ramban market. Continuous rainfall loosened the hillsides, causing landslides and waterlogging.

The weather office had forecast rain and thunderstorms in the region from May 8 to 11 and warned of possible light rain and thunder showers in vulnerable areas on May 12. A meteorological department spokesperson said, “Intense showers in some vulnerable places may lead to landslides and mudslides.” Cleanup efforts are underway, but ongoing rain is slowing the work. Authorities have strongly advised the public to avoid using NH44 until the route is declared safe.

With more rain expected in the coming days, the situation is being closely monitored. A gradual improvement in weather and a rise in temperatures is forecast from May 13, mainly in Jammu division, which may help speed up recovery and restore traffic flow.