Zaffar Iqbal
Srinagar, Oct 15 (GNS): The Uri-Baramulla National Highway at Rajarwani remained closed for the second consecutive day today following massive landslides triggered by heavy rainfall, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded and 50 villages without electricity.
Officials told GNS that huge boulders and debris continue to block the stretch and men and machinery are on job, but extensive damage to the road has delayed restoration work.
Traffic is still being diverted through the alternate route via Ginge and Paranpillan through Dachi in Uri. Authorities have advised commuters to avoid the Rajarwani stretch till clearance is completed.
Meanwhile, power supply to at least 50 villages in Uri remained affected for the second day after a 33-KV transmission line and several electric poles were damaged at Rajarwani in the landslide.
Officials said restoration of electricity could not be started as the closed highway has hampered access to the damaged infrastructure.
“Heavy landslides have caused massive damage. We are waiting for the highway to reopen so that restoration of power supply can be undertaken,” an official said.
Locals said normal life has been badly hit due to simultaneous closure of the highway and prolonged power outage.
Officials said efforts are underway to restore both road connectivity and power supply at the earliest.(GNS)
