NH-44 Traffic Suspended Announced on July 31, 2026
NH-44 Traffic Suspended Announced on July 31, 2026
Temporary Traffic Halt on NH-44 (Udhampur–Chenani Section) for Slope Stabilization and Restoration Works near Ladha, Samroli.
ORDER
The District Magistrate, Udhampur, has ordered a temporary suspension of traffic on NH-44 (Udhampur–Chenani section) due to continuous rainfall since 18 July 2026, which has triggered repeated landslides, mudslides and falling debris near Ladha, Samroli, posing a serious risk to commuters and restoration workers.
Despite ongoing restoration efforts and the restoration of two-way traffic by widening the valley-side carriageway, the hill slope remains unstable. Permanent stabilization and widening of the hill-side carriageway require deployment of heavy machinery, which cannot be carried out safely under live traffic conditions.
In the interest of public safety and to facilitate uninterrupted restoration work, the District Magistrate, exercising powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, has ordered the following:
- Traffic movement on NH-44 shall remain completely suspended on 31-07-2026.
- During the suspension, NHAI will undertake intensive debris removal, slope stabilization and other necessary restoration works to ensure the safe and early reopening of the highway.
- The Senior Superintendents of Police of Udhampur and Ramban, the Superintendent of Police (Traffic), NHW Ramban, and other concerned officers shall make necessary traffic regulation and diversion arrangements and ensure strict enforcement of the order.
- The Project Director, NHAI PIU Ramban, shall:
- Ensure adequate deployment of manpower, machinery and equipment to complete the restoration work within the stipulated period.
- Maintain close coordination with the district administration, police and traffic authorities.
- Install adequate warning signs, barricades and other safety measures at all vulnerable locations.
