Deputy Commissioner, Ramban, Mussarat Islam today inspected the road clearance operation at various places on NH-44 and took stock of provisions made for providing meals and night shelter to stranded passengers at RAHAT Centres (designated places). The DC was accompanied by the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Harbans Sharma; ASP, Rajni Sharma; Dy. SP Traffic, Parul and other concerned officials. The 270-KM Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was blocked at several places between Nashri and Banihal stretch due to landslides, mudslides and shooting stones triggered by overnight rains.
Taking quick action, the District Administration, in collaboration with Traffic Police has put the executing agencies on job to clear the road, besides providing night shelter and meals to the stranded passengers.The DC directed executing agencies to depute adequate men and machinery to clear landslides instantly and make the road traffic worthy. In view of inclement weather conditions, the DC appealed to the commuters to contact traffic control rooms before starting their journey on the highway.He directed the SDMs of Banihal and Ramsoo to activate Quick Response Teams and ensure heating arrangements, eatables, sanitation and toilet facilities in all RAHAT centres for the stranded passengers. The District Emergency Operation Centre has also been activated for better coordination in view of heavy rainfall and any possible damage to property.