NH-44 Traffic Restrictions Announced for October 31 and November 1

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police have announced special traffic restrictions on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) for October 31 and November 1, 2026, to facilitate the smooth movement of the Jammu and Kashmir Secretariat employees' convoy from Srinagar to Jammu in connection with the Darbar Move.

According to the traffic advisory issued by Traffic Police Headquarters, the movement of heavy and medium motor vehicles carrying goods from Jakheni in Udhampur towards Srinagar will remain prohibited on both days.

The restrictions have been introduced to ensure the safe and uninterrupted movement of the Secretariat convoy as government offices shift their winter operations from Srinagar to Jammu.

Goods Carrier Movement Restricted

As per the advisory, no upward movement of heavy and medium motor vehicles, including goods carriers, will be permitted from Jakheni towards Ramban, Banihal, Srinagar and other destinations on October 31 and November 1.

Additionally, goods carriers travelling from Jakheni towards Kashmir and from Qazigund towards Banihal, Ramban and Udhampur will not be allowed to proceed after 2:00 AM on the respective dates.

The restrictions will apply during the intervening nights of October 30–31 and October 31–November 1.

However, heavy motor vehicles travelling downhill from Qazigund towards Jammu will be allowed to operate in a regulated manner, depending on traffic management arrangements.

Advisory for Transporters and Essential Goods Suppliers

Traffic authorities have specifically advised operators transporting fresh fruits, vegetables, other perishable commodities and livestock to plan their loading schedules and journeys carefully.

Transporters have been urged to avoid unnecessary delays and ensure that their vehicles comply with the prescribed restrictions. The advisory is particularly important for businesses dependent on regular transportation between Jammu and Kashmir.

Commuters Advised to Exercise Caution

Apart from the special restrictions on goods carriers, commuters travelling along NH-44 have been advised to maintain lane discipline and avoid overtaking, particularly on vulnerable stretches.

Traffic movement has recently been affected by single-lane road conditions, uneven surfaces and ongoing construction work between Ramban and Banihal. Vehicle breakdowns and the movement of nomadic herds have also contributed to congestion.

Passenger vehicles and private cars may operate subject to prevailing weather and road conditions. Motorists have been advised to prefer daytime journeys and avoid unnecessary stops in landslide- and shooting-stone-prone areas.

Darbar Move Arrangements

The Darbar Move is the biannual administrative practice under which the Jammu and Kashmir government shifts its Secretariat operations between Srinagar and Jammu according to the seasons.

The movement of government employees and official vehicles requires coordinated traffic arrangements along the highway to minimise inconvenience and ensure public safety.

Traffic Police have urged commuters and transport operators to check the latest highway status before beginning their journeys.