India, Sept. 14 -- The 270-km Jammu-Srinagar national highway, a critical lifeline for the region, has turned into a scene of chaos and frustration for commuters, who face a gruelling ordeal as what used to be a nearly five-hour journey just three weeks ago now drags on for more than 12 hours due to damaged road and poor management.

The highway - the only all-weather road linking Kashmir with the rest of the country - suffered extensive damages at several places, especially on the stretch between Nashri and Udhampur, in the aftermath of record rainfall on August 26 and 27.

However, the damaged portion is not the only obstacle to smooth movement of vehicles.

Even as the authorities implemented a one-way traffic system after reopening th...