The regular advisories and real-time updates issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police emerged as a lifeline for commuters during the unprecedented closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, which reopened on Wednesday for light motor vehicles.
The highway, the Valley’s only all-weather road link with the rest of the country, had remained shut for at least 14 days due to heavy rains, flash floods, and multiple landslides.
The prolonged disruption caused widespread inconvenience and economic losses, but timely communication through platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook helped travelers plan their journeys better, avoiding unnecessary risks and delays.
A senior traffic police officer told news agency Kashmir Indepth News Service (KINS) that accurate, timely information has become an essential part of modern policing.
“We knew the prolonged closure would impact thousands — from truck drivers carrying essentials to local residents and tourists. Our aim was to ensure that no traveler set out uninformed. Regular updates on the condition of the road, ongoing restoration work, and advisories significantly reduced chaos and traffic build-ups at vulnerable points,” the official said.
He noted that updates were often shared late at night or early in the morning, keeping pace with the fast-changing situation. “Earlier, people relied on word-of-mouth or waited for official circulars. Today, a single update through social media instantly reaches thousands of people, providing clarity and saving time,” he added.
For many commuters, particularly tourists unfamiliar with the region’s terrain, the advisories proved invaluable.
Ramesh Gupta, a businessman from Jammu, said the alerts saved him from unnecessary loss. “I was scheduled to travel on September 5, but after checking the updates, I learned the road was shut. I postponed my trip instead of getting stranded midway. These advisories are a blessing.”
Shazia, a college student from Anantnag, shared a similar experience. “I had to return from Chandigarh after exams. We relied on the Traffic Police’s updates and only travelled once the reopening was announced. It gave us confidence and peace of mind.”
Local transporters and taxi operators acknowledged the positive impact as well. Abdul Rashid, a driver from Qazigund, said:“Earlier, we wasted hours at checkpoints waiting for news. Now, official updates help us plan trips, saving fuel, money, and stress.”
Officials believe the digital outreach has strengthened trust between the police and the public. “When travelers see consistent and accurate information, they comply with advisories, making our work on the ground easier,” said another officer.
The highway was reopened for light motor vehicles on Wednesday, with officials indicating that heavy vehicles will be allowed only after further assessment.(KINS) Ishtiyaq Kar
