Jammu, January 23, 2026 : Moderate to heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of the Jammu region, including the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, disrupted normal life on Friday, leading to suspension of traffic on key highways, partial disruption of rail and air services, and closure of schools in several hilly districts. Meanwhile, moderate rainfall in the plains, including Jammu city, ended a dry spell of over two months, bringing relief to farmers and the tourism sector.
More than 100 stranded persons were rescued from snowbound areas in Poonch and Udhampur districts. Snowfall was reported across the upper reaches of Ramban, Doda, Kishtwar, Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi, Udhampur and Kathua, with accumulation ranging from a few inches to over two feet in some areas.
Traffic on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was suspended due to heavy snowfall near the Navyug Tunnel, leaving thousands of vehicles stranded. The Mughal Road, Srinagar–Leh highway and Sinthan Road were also closed. Rail services were partially affected, while five flights were suspended and several delayed at Jammu airport.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra was temporarily suspended as a precaution but has since been restored. Authorities have issued advisories to avoid non-essential travel, established district helplines, and initiated restoration operations as weather conditions permit.
