Officials confirmed that the landslide impacted the stretch between Digdol and Khooni Nallah in the afternoon, leading to a complete shutdown of vehicular movement.

Heavy debris and rocks tumbled onto the road, leaving the highway entirely blocked and unsafe for travel.

"Traffic authorities have immediately halted movement on the busy highway as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety", traffic department officials said.

Authorities have urged commuters to avoid travelling on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway NH-44 until crews complete clearing operations and confirm safety.

Officials stated that restoration efforts will commence shortly, subject to favourable weather conditions. Unstable terrain in the area often complicates and delays such operations.

The nearly 300-kilometre-long highway remains a vital lifeline for the Kashmir Valley, ensuring the movement of essential goods from other parts of the country.

Despite rail connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar, transporters continue to move most supplies by road.

Although recent infrastructure upgrades have reduced travel time between Jammu and Srinagar to around five hours, the highway remains highly vulnerable to weather disruptions.

The section between Ramsoo and Ramban town is especially prone to landslides and falling stones during adverse weather.

Recurring landslides in the region continue to hinder smooth connectivity, with clearance work occasionally taking several days. Until alternative transport systems become fully reliable, dependence on this highway is likely to continue.