Aazan Manzoor
Jammu, Jan 24 (JKNS): The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remained closed for the second consecutive day on Saturday due to heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded and triggering massive traffic congestion at several points, particularly at Jakhani Chowk in Udhampur.
Passengers travelling in private vehicles, buses and trucks were seen stuck for hours amid freezing temperatures, with many expressing distress over the lack of shelter, food and timely information. Families with children, elderly passengers and patients were among the worst affected, as vehicles remained stationary for long stretches.
“We have been stuck here since last night with no clear information on when the road will open. It’s extremely cold and difficult to manage fuel and food,” said Rakesh Singh, a truck driver stranded at Jakhani Chowk told news agency JKNS.
A group of students travelling to Srinagar said the situation was taking a toll on them. “We have exams and important work, but we are helpless. We slept inside the vehicle and there are no basic facilities available,” said Aamir Altaf, a student.
Traders transporting essential goods expressed concern over potential losses. “Perishable items are getting damaged, and every hour of delay is causing heavy financial loss. Authorities should provide alternate arrangements or timely updates,” said Mohammad Yousuf, a fruit trader.
Another commuter, Sunita Devi, travelling with her family, said children and elderly passengers were suffering the most. “There is no place to rest, no drinking water, and the cold is unbearable. We just want safe passage or some relief,” she said.
Locals said the traffic pile-up at Jakhani Chowk extended for several kilometres, with movement coming to a complete halt. Many stranded commuters were forced to spend the night inside their vehicles, braving the cold as snowfall and slippery road conditions hampered clearance operations.
Officials said snowfall in the upper reaches and landslide-prone areas disrupted restoration efforts, adding that road clearance teams are on the job and traffic will be allowed once weather conditions improve and the road is deemed safe.
Meanwhile, stranded passengers appealed to the administration for immediate relief measures, including temporary shelters, drinking water and medical assistance, until normal traffic movement is restored on the highway. (JKNS)
