Jammu-Srinagar Highway caves in near Tharad bridge in Udhampur

Udhampur, Aug 31: A stretch of the Jammu-Srinagar Highway, measuring about 50–60 metres, has caved in, blocking the down tube near Tharad Bridge in Udhampur as rains continue to lash the area. Officials have advised commuters to avoid travel until restoration is completed, and clearance is given by the Traffic Control Unit (TCU).

According to SSP Traffic, Udhampur, “The sinking uphill stretch, measuring about 50–60 metres and located adjacent to Tharad Bridge, has blocked the down tube as well. Upside-down vegetation is visible in this continuously sinking patch between Tharad Bridge and Balli Nallah.”

He said the entire stretch is caving in continuously amid rains, and the site of the new ramp is also coming under this sinking zone, which has now blocked both tubes.

The general public and commuters have been advised to avoid travel on NH-44 until restoration is completed and clearance is given by the Traffic Control Unit (TCU).

Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, also warned commuters against using NH44 after the incident.

In a post on X, he wrote, “The entire stretch at Tharad is caving in continuously amid rains. The site of the new ramp has come under the sinking zone, blocking both tubes. Commuters are strictly advised to avoid travel on NH44 until restoration is completed and clearance is granted by TCU.”