In Jammu and Kashmir, the 270 kms long strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH44) was once again closed for vehicular traffic after a massive landslide struck near Shalgadi in Banihal during the intervening night, disrupting vehicular movement.

The traffic movement on both sides of the national highway has been suspended, with vehicles halted at safer locations following continuous heavy rainfall in Ramban district that triggered the landslides. People are advised not to travel on the highway until the road is fully restored.

Traffic authorities have urged the commuters not to pay heed to rumours and check the status of roads on the traffic police Twitter handle, Facebook page and traffic control units. The work is on to reopen the highway but incessant rains in the Ramban-Banihal sector are making the task difficult. Meanwhile, in view of the inclement weather conditions, the district administration Ramban has announced a holiday for all government schools across Ramban district today.