PP NEWS LINE DESK : The prolonged closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has dealt a severe blow to trade and daily life in Kashmir, with traders estimating losses running into crores. Though the highway was partially reopened on Wednesday for light motor vehicles (LMVs), movement of heavy vehicles remains suspended due to massive landslides at Thard in Udhampur district.
Yaseen Khan, President of the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF), said business has “totally collapsed” due to the eight-day shutdown. “Essential supplies are running short, some shops have closed, and though exact estimates can’t be made, heavy losses are visible,” he said. He added that nearly every sector is reeling under the crisis, as Kashmir depends on outside supplies ranging from rice and oil to petroleum products and electronics.
Tariq Ghani, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kashmir (CCIK), said the blockade has crippled businesses across the Valley. “Losses run into crores. Not just one trader, but everyone is hit badly as stocks have exhausted. Shortage is rising because of non-availability of products,” he said. Ghani also questioned why essential goods are not being transported via train. “If train services have started, why can’t supplies arrive through rail as well? Rates of essentials are already skyrocketing,” he remarked.
Mohammad Saleem, Vice President of the Lal Chowk Traders Association, said many shopkeepers are facing acute shortages, while those with leftover stock are resorting to price hikes. He added that the recent GST hike has further worsened the situation, leaving traders under immense strain.
Meanwhile, traffic authorities said that while the Mughal Road and Sinthan road are open as per advisory, the Srinagar-Jammu highway (NH-44) remains closed for heavy vehicles. The Doda-Kishtwar road (NH-244) is also shut due to a landslide at Rankha Shed near Nasib Nagar, while the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) road is blocked at Zojila. Restoration work is underway, and officials have urged people not to travel until all highways are fully restored.
