Omar Abdullah Demands Handover of Jammu-Srinagar Highway

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has made a strong demand to the central government: if they can’t properly maintain the vital Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), they should hand it over to the J&K administration.

This comes amid frustration over repeated closures and delays in repairs, especially after recent landslides and heavy rains. Speaking to reporters in Srinagar on September 15, 2025, Abdullah highlighted the urgent need to reopen the highway fully for trucks, as apple growers face huge losses during the harvest season.

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The 270-km Jammu-Srinagar NH-44 is the main road link between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India. It has been plagued by closures due to landslides, especially after heavy monsoon rains in late August 2025. The highway was shut for nine days and reopened last week, but only for light vehicles like cars. Heavy trucks, crucial for transporting apples and other goods, are still not allowed, causing major problems for farmers.

Apple growers in Kashmir are hit hardest. The harvest season is underway, but with the road blocked for trucks, they can’t send their produce to markets in Jammu, Delhi, and beyond. This delay means fruits rot or sell at low prices, leading to financial losses worth crores. Protests have erupted, with growers demanding quick action. Abdullah echoed their anger, saying the Centre’s promises of daily repairs haven’t come true.

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“Enough is Enough,” Says Abdullah

In his press interaction, Abdullah was direct: “This highway falls under the jurisdiction of the Government of India. If they cannot maintain it, they should hand it over to us. I will deploy a team of engineers who are currently available here.” He added, “Enough is enough. We have been patient because they kept assuring us daily that work would be done, but it didn’t happen.”

The Chief Minister plans to speak with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on the same day. He wants the highway restored for truck movement right away. Abdullah also called for more support from the railways, noting that just one special train for goods isn’t enough. “We are thankful for the train service, but it should run regularly so fruit growers have options—by road or rail,” he said.

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The NH-44 isn’t just a road; it’s a lifeline for Kashmir’s economy. Apples alone bring in billions of rupees each year, supporting thousands of families. Delays in transport hurt farmers, traders, and the entire supply chain. Recent floods and landslides have already caused loss of lives and damage to property in areas like Kishtwar and near Mata Vaishno Devi. Abdullah also demanded compensation from the Centre for these losses and more special trains to ease the burden.

This demand reflects broader issues in J&K, where the central government handles key infrastructure like national highways. Since the region became a Union Territory in 2019, local leaders have pushed for more control over such assets. Handing over the highway could let J&K engineers fix it faster and make it more reliable, especially during monsoons.

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Abdullah’s call has sparked discussions on better coordination between the Centre and J&K. While the government works on repairs, fruit growers hope for quick relief. The Chief Minister’s proactive approach shows his commitment to protecting local interests. As he meets Gadkari, all eyes are on whether the Centre will respond positively or keep control.

For now, the message is clear: J&K needs a functional highway, and if the Centre can’t deliver, it’s time to pass the responsibility. This could be a step toward stronger local governance and a boost for the apple industry.