J&K: Due to the excessive snowfall and slick conditions this winter, the old Mughal road in Jammu and Kashmir, also known as the alternative National Highway, which connected the twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch with the Shopian district of Kashmir valley, has been permanently blocked.
This winter, the route cannot be made open for traffic due to the significant snow buildup at the top of Pir Ki Gali and its surrounding areas on both sides, the slick conditions, and the fall in temperature. Although the District Magistrates of Poonch and Shopian districts have not yet formally ordered the closure of this road, the regulatory authorities have acknowledged that the current weather conditions do not permit its opening for another two to three months.
Executive Engineer Mughal Road, Shoket Ali, stated that although the road has been cleaned of snow numerous times during this winter season for vehicular travel, it cannot yet be left open due to a number of factors, including passenger safety.