The Doda-Kishtwar road in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district was blocked on Saturday due to a major landslide near Gatsoo, close to Pul Doda, obstructing vehicular movement and prompting authorities to issue a traffic advisory.
The Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police reported on X that the landslide occurred early in the morning, completely blocking the crucial road connecting Doda and Kishtwar. “Traffic update at 0800 hrs. The Doda-Kishtwar road is blocked due to a major landslide at Gatsoo near Pul Doda. Men and machinery are on the job, however, it will take some time to clear. Commuters are advised to avoid travel on the Doda-Kishtwar road until it is fully restored,” the advisory stated.
Authorities have deployed teams along with heavy machinery to clear the debris and restore connectivity as soon as possible. Visuals from the scene show officials removing boulders from the road. There have been no reports of casualties or injuries related to the landslide so far. Further details are awaited.
In a separate incident in the Bantalab area of Jammu, at least three labourers died after an under-construction portion of a bridge collapsed. Rescue operations were launched immediately, with teams managing to rescue one survivor.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary expressed condolences regarding the loss of life, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the loss of three lives in the incident. Four people were trapped, of whom three died, and one survived safely.”
He added that strict action has been taken against those responsible, including the suspension of two officials, attachment of another, blacklisting of the contractor, and an ongoing inquiry into the incident.