Uri, March 22, 2026 : The strategic Uri-Baramulla National Highway NH-1, the only all-weather road connecting the border town of Uri with the rest of the Valley, was blocked on Sunday following a massive landslide, officials said.
Eyewitnesses reported that a large portion of a hillock suddenly collapsed onto the highway, burying the carriageway under heavy debris and bringing vehicular movement to a complete halt. The incident caused significant disruption, leaving several commuters stranded along the route.
Authorities promptly rushed men and machinery to the site to clear the debris and restore traffic. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported.
However, the blockade has once again brought public concerns over infrastructure safety and administrative oversight into focus. Stranded commuters alleged that recurring landslides along this stretch point to poor planning and inadequate preventive measures.
“When landslides occur regularly on this highway, people may soon fear stepping out of their homes,” said one commuter, urging authorities to take long-term corrective steps. Another local expressed relief that the incident occurred during daylight hours, noting that a similar collapse at night could have resulted in serious casualties.
A senior official attributed the landslide to ongoing construction and widening work on the highway. “Such incidents are common in hilly terrains during road construction. However, efforts are being made to minimize risks and ensure swift response,” the official stated.
He added that scientific methods are being emphasized for earth-cutting and slope stabilization, and strict action would be taken against any illegal or unsafe construction practices.
Authorities said continuous monitoring of the highway project is underway to prevent further incidents and ensure smooth and safe traffic movement in the region.
