Heavy Machinery Deployed as NH-44 Near Udhampur Cleared After Hill Slide

After relentless rain triggered a hill slide that blocked a critical stretch on the Jammu-Srinagar highway near Udhampur, efforts to reopen the route have intensified. Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir authorities say heavy machinery is working round the clock to repair damage and restore traffic. For fruit growers, transporters and residents in smaller towns, the highway disruption has meant losses and shortages, making swift action crucial.

What Happened and Why It Matters

A 250-300 metre stretch of NH-44 near Udhampur was badly affected by landslides and rain, creating a break in connectivity. Traffic piled up, essential supplies were delayed, and local growers suffered due to spoilage and delayed transport of perishables. The highway is a lifeline for Kashmir-linked trade and daily commuting for many.

The Response from Authorities

Union Highways Minister and local government officials have mobilised more than a dozen excavators and over fifty earthmovers. A temporary two-lane diversion has been built to allow traffic flow while repair work continues. Coordination between central agencies and Jammu & Kashmir’s administration is being emphasised, with promises that full restoration is a priority.

Local Impact and Voices

Growers who supply fruits to markets outside Kashmir say the delay has meant serious financial loss. In smaller towns near Udhampur, some businesses are running low on fresh produce and essentials. Residents complain of higher transport costs and longer waiting times. Some political voices have alleged that repeated disruptions point to neglect of maintenance and infrastructure planning.

Challenges Ahead

Repairing a highway in mountainous terrain comes with risks. Landslides may recur during monsoon seasons and heavy rain complicates repair work. Ensuring safety of workers, stabilising slopes, and preventing future washouts will require investment and planning. Weather unpredictability means forecasting and preventive mechanisms must be improved.

Why This Matters for Smaller Cities

Tier-2 and Tier-3 towns along NH-44 rely on the highway for supply chains, health services, and economic ties. When major routes are blocked, small traders lose income, patients can’t access care quickly, and emergency response becomes difficult. This incident underscores how critical infrastructure maintenance is for these cities’ stability and growth.

Conclusion

Clearing the NH-44 stretch near Udhampur is more than a repair job—it’s about restoring lives, trade, and trust. While the machinery is at work and traffic has partially resumed, the moment demands that authorities plan for long-term resilience. For communities depending on these connections, what comes next will matter just as much as how swiftly things get fixed.