Qazigund, Dec 20: In view of the forecast predicting moderate to heavy snowfall in higher reaches and rain/snowfall in plains from December 20 to 23, a high-level coordination meeting was held at Qazigund under the chairmanship of SSP Traffic Rural Kashmir, Shri R. P. Singh, to ensure safe and uninterrupted traffic movement on National Highway-44 (NH-44).
Senior officers from the District Police, Civil Administration, Ramki, Beacon, Nowyug (Qazigund–Banihal) Tunnel authorities, and Toll Plaza authorities of Qazigund and Banihal, along with DySP Traffic Qazigund, SDPO Qazigund, Tehsildar Qazigund, DTIs, and Jawahar Tunnel Police, participated in the meeting.
A senior official said the meeting primarily focused on ensuring effective traffic management and commuter safety on NH-44 during the anticipated adverse weather conditions. “All concerned agencies were directed to ensure prompt, continuous, and efficient snow clearance operations to keep NH-44 functional and minimize disruptions to vehicular movement,” he said.
The official further said cemented barricades will be installed at various cut points along NH-44 to prevent wrong-lane driving and ensure disciplined traffic flow. “Adequate snow-clearing machinery and recovery equipment will be stationed at identified slippery and accident-prone locations to prevent mishaps and ensure safe passage of vehicles,” he added.
He also said a substantial deployment of traffic personnel has been planned from Pampore to the Nowyug Tunnel at Qazigund, with special emphasis on sensitive and critical stretches of the highway.
The Nowyug Tunnel authorities were specifically instructed to proactively regulate or suspend traffic during adverse weather conditions to prevent vehicles from getting stranded inside the tunnel. Toll Plaza authorities at Qazigund and Banihal were advised to maintain close coordination with all stakeholders for timely and effective responses to evolving situations, he said.
Commuters and drivers were strongly advised to strictly adhere to traffic advisories, drive cautiously, and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy snowfall in the interest of public safety.
While addressing the meeting, SSP Traffic Rural Kashmir emphasized the need for seamless coordination, effective communication, and swift response mechanisms among all participating agencies. He urged stakeholders to prioritize public safety and remain alert and prepared to handle any exigency arising due to inclement weather.
A comprehensive action plan was finalized during the meeting to mitigate the impact of heavy snowfall and ensure smooth, safe, and uninterrupted traffic movement on NH-44.
