Srinagar, Jan 28: The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained closed for the second consecutive day on Wednesday as authorities cited extreme road slipperiness despite ongoing snow clearance operations.

Officials said snow clearance work began early in the morning, with men and machinery deployed at multiple vulnerable points to restore connectivity. Although brief sunshine was reported in the Banihal sector, overnight snowfall and sub-zero temperatures resulted in long stretches of the highway being covered with ice, rendering travel unsafe.

Authorities explained that even after snow is cleared, black ice and compacted snow continue to pose serious risks. “The road is extremely slippery and vehicles may skid even after clearance, so traffic cannot be allowed at this stage,” an official said.

The closure is being maintained as a precautionary measure, with reopening subject to safety assessments. Continuous monitoring is underway, particularly in avalanche- and landslide-prone zones along the highway.

Meanwhile, several other key roads across the region also remained shut due to heavy snow accumulation. The Mughal Road, Sinthan Pass and the Sonamarg–Ghumri stretch continued to be closed for vehicular movement.

Authorities have advised commuters to avoid travel on snowbound routes and wait for official clearance as restoration efforts continue amid harsh winter conditions.