After two days of closure due to heavy rain, the Jammu‑Srinagar National Highway reopened for limited traffic, allowing 3,886 pilgrims to depart for the Amarnath Yatra. Security remains tight, but weather risks persist.

Key Takeaways

  • NH-44 reopened for limited traffic after two‑day rain‑induced closure
  • 3,886 pilgrims left Jammu in a convoy of 177 vehicles at 02:52 am
  • Ongoing restoration work continues despite lingering weather threats

Yatra Restarts with Highway Reopening

The Jammu‑Srinagar National Highway (NH‑44) reopened on Sunday for restricted traffic after two days of shutdown caused by heavy rain. A fresh batch of 3,886 pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu, heading toward the Baltal base camp in a convoy of 177 vehicles.

Progress and Numbers

This marks the 25th group to depart Jammu since the pilgrimage began on July 3. The 57‑day journey will conclude on August 28. To date, more than 450,000 devotees have visited the 3,880‑metre‑high Amarnath cave shrine.

Highway Repairs and Current Status

Heavy rain damaged several stretches of the 250‑km highway, especially near Dewal Bridge in the Samroli area of Udhampur. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has cleared debris with heavy earth‑moving equipment and restored the worst‑hit section for single‑carriage traffic. Heavy vehicles will be allowed only on alternate days.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the resumption of the yatra will boost local economies and religious tourism, while security measures and unpredictable weather remain critical challenges.

"Rapid highway restoration ensures pilgrim safety, but continued rain demands heightened vigilance," says traffic expert Dr. Shiv Kumar Sharma.
Did You Know?: The Amarnath Yatra is one of the world’s highest religious pilgrimages, reaching an altitude of 3,880 metres.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Are all pilgrims allowed to travel the highway now?

Answer: Light vehicles may travel under limited traffic, while heavy vehicles are restricted to alternate days.

Question 2: Have additional weather warnings been issued for the pilgrimage?

Answer: Yes, traffic police advise pilgrims to check the latest road and weather updates before traveling.