A fresh landslide on the Jammu‑Srinagar National Highway left hundreds of vehicles stranded and prompted a safety inspection of the Pul Doda bridge. A convoy of 3,823 Amarnath pilgrims was permitted to cross the affected stretch under one‑way traffic control.

Key Takeaways

  • Over 1,700 trucks and passenger vehicles stranded after a landslide in Dewal, Udhampur
  • Pul Doda bridge closed for inspection over suspected cracks
  • Amarnath Yatra convoy allowed one‑way passage on the highway

Incident Overview

A massive landslide struck the strategic Jammu‑Srinagar National Highway at Dewal in Udhampur district early Monday, forcing authorities to halt traffic in both directions. Approximately 1,700 trucks and numerous passenger vehicles were left stranded between Udhampur and Banihal.

In Doda district, the Pul Doda bridge was shut down after visible markings raised safety concerns. Public Works Department engineer Anil Mehra clarified that the markings are not structural cracks but likely concrete overlap at shuttering joints from construction.

Amarnath Convoy Gets Special Clearance

The National Highway Authority cleared a fresh batch of 3,823 Amarnath pilgrims, travelling in a 140‑vehicle convoy, to cross the affected stretch under one‑way traffic. Normal two‑way flow is expected to resume once the second tube becomes operational within the next few hours.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the Jammu‑Srinagar corridor is a lifeline for both commerce and pilgrimage, linking mainland India to the Kashmir Valley. Disruptions not only cause economic losses but also jeopardize the safety of thousands of pilgrims each season.

"Continuous monitoring and proactive maintenance of mountain highways can dramatically reduce landslide‑related disruptions," says geotechnical expert Dr. Rajat Singh.
Did You Know?: The Jammu‑Srinagar highway was designated a National Highway in 1976 and remains one of the highest‑altitude, all‑season roads in India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is the Pul Doda bridge now deemed safe?

A: The bridge will be reopened only after an independent design‑inspection team certifies its structural integrity.

Q2: Will the Amarnath convoy face any further restrictions?

A: One‑way traffic will continue until full safety clearance is issued; normal flow will resume thereafter.