Srinagar: Lieutenant General Raghu Srinivasan, Director General of Border Roads (DGBR), visited the Jammu division to assess the extensive damage caused by recent heavy rainfall and landslides across the region. The visit was part of the Border Roads Organisation’s (BRO) ongoing efforts to restore critical road connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to an official release from the Ministry of Defence, Lt Gen Srinivasan inspected the severely affected Ramkot–Ranjit Sagar Dam Road and the Basholi–Bani Road — both of strategic importance.
During his inspection, the DGBR visited the Pedu Nala area, where two bridges had been displaced due to landslides triggered by incessant rains. He oversaw the ongoing work to construct temporary diversions aimed at restoring traffic movement.
At Bhoond (Km 47) on the Bani–Basholi Road, a major section had been completely washed away in the recent deluge, leaving a significant gap. Lt Gen Srinivasan reviewed the formation-cutting operations for a new access alignment being developed to reconnect the area.
During the field visit, he interacted with local MLA Mr. Darshan Kumar from Basholi and assured him of BRO’s commitment to restoring road connectivity at the earliest. He also commended the personnel of BRO’s Project Sampark for their tireless efforts and encouraged them to continue their dedicated work in the challenging weather conditions.
Meanwhile, the broader situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains critical. The 270-kilometre-long Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was closed on Thursday following multiple landslides near Udhampur, particularly in the Thard area. Clearing operations are currently underway to reopen this vital route connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of the country.
In the Jammu region, the Tawi River is flowing at dangerously high levels, while in Reasi, authorities have opened the gates of the Salal Dam to manage rising water levels in the Chenab River. Rajouri district is also facing flood-like conditions due to continued downpours, prompting officials to stay on high alert.
The Regional Meteorological Centre has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall in several districts, including Samba, Kathua, Budgam, Shopian, Kulgam, Bandipora, Baramulla, Pulwama, and Ganderbal. A yellow alert is also in place for Anantnag, Srinagar, and Kupwara.
