Jammu: Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday announced significant progress in restoring road connectivity in Kishtwar and Udhampur districts of Jammu and Kashmir.
The National Highway-244 (NH-244) from Thathri to Kishtwar has reopened following clearance of landslides and road damage. The Kishtwar-Chatroo-Sinthan Top road is expected to open soon after blasting operations removed large rocks and boulders. Additionally, the Thathri-Kathawa road reopened after a week-long closure, reconnecting over 15,000 residents.
Singh shared on X: “The landslides and damages to NH-244 have been cleared and it is open for traffic. Thathri-Kathawa road has reopened after a week, restoring connectivity to over 15,000 people.”
He further noted that villages in Doda district, including Bheja, Kutyara, and Sartingal, which were heavily affected by recent adverse weather, are receiving relief through footbridges and supplies such as ration, solar lights, and bedding provided by the Indian Army.
Singh added: “NH-244 from Thathri to Kishtwar is now open, bypassing the slide area. The Kishtwar-Chatroo-Sinthan Top road will open soon following yesterday’s blasting to remove heavy rocks and boulders. The PMGSY road to Bhed block was made motorable after 20 days, and the Bani-Basohli road is expected to open for LMVs by this evening. Essential commodities are available in all affected areas.”
Meanwhile, Rajouri district faced severe disruption due to heavy rainfall over the past few days, with damaged houses, sunken roads, and destroyed crops. Multiple rain-induced landslides blocked several routes. Social activist and Congress leader Farookh Khan told ANI: “Over the past 5-6 days, we toured the Majakote tehsil. Houses are completely damaged, and roads sunken, causing water to accumulate behind homes and further damage.”
The Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra also remained suspended for the 12th consecutive day due to persistent adverse weather and landslides along the pilgrimage route in the Trikuta Hills, making it unsafe for devotees.
