 Early Times Report
JAMMU, July 22: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Regional Office Jammu, has undertaken extensive monsoon preparedness measures across the entire NH-44 corridor and other National Highway stretches under its jurisdiction to ensure safe and uninterrupted movement of traffic during the ongoing monsoon season. The preparedness plan has been shared with the Jammu & Kashmir Administration and J&K Police to facilitate a coordinated response during any emergency.
NHAI has identified vulnerable locations, landslide-prone stretches, and ponding-prone areas based on previous experience. Necessary preventive measures have already been taken at these locations, while continuous monitoring is being carried out throughout the monsoon period. Maintenance and Operation & Maintenance (O&M) contractors have been instructed to maintain round-the-clock vigil on all critical sections.
To enable swift restoration in the event of any landslide or obstruction, 202 emergency response machines comprising excavators, JCBs, loaders, dozers, dumpers, hydras, graders, cranes, recovery vehicles, snow cutters, tractors and other specialised equipment have been strategically deployed at identified critical locations across PIUs Jammu, Udhampur, Ramban and Srinagar. These machines are available on 24×7 standby with dedicated response teams and nodal officers for immediate mobilisation.
Dedicated contact details of NHAI officials, independent engineers, and concessionaire representatives have also been shared with the district administration and police authorities to facilitate quick coordination and prompt response during any unforeseen situation.
NHAI remains committed to ensuring that NH-44, the lifeline connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, remains operational with minimum disruption while prioritising the safety and convenience of road users. Motorists are advised to follow traffic advisories issued by the administration and cooperate with field agencies during periods of adverse weather.
NHAI appeals to all road users to drive cautiously during heavy rainfall and immediately report any highway-related emergency to the nearest NHAI or police control room for timely assistance. |
