Srinagar, Jan. 9 -- The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44)-the vital all-weather link connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of the country-remained severely congested for nearly 24 hours, authorities confirmed on Friday.

A senior traffic officer told the Kashmir News Service (KNS) that the extensive disruption lasted from 4:00 PM Thursday until 4:00 PM Friday. It was caused by enforced single-lane traffic at critical stretches, including Balinalla, Dewal, Nashri-Dalwas, and the sector between Marog and Kishtwari Pather. The situation was exacerbated by the breakdown of three Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) along the route.

He stated, "Passengers and Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) drivers are strongly advised to undertake journeys on the...