Rains lash Jammu, parts of Kashmir; Jammu-Sgr national highway blocked

Srinagar, Aug 11(KNS): Rains lashed Jammu division and parts of Kashmir while the weatherman on Thursday forecasted Light to Moderate Rain at scattered places of J&K.
The 270- km long Jammu-Srinagar national highway was blocked due to fresh mudslides, shooting stones triggered by rains on Thursday, said officials. 
The officials said that the national highway was blocked following rains, which triggered shooting stones. “NH-44 blocked at Mehar and Cafeteria Morh due to shooting stones and mudslides. Restoration work will start when rains stop,” Deputy Commissioner Ramban said.
Meanwhile, a MeT official said Weather is improving gradually in Jammu province. “Currently, overcast with intermittent Light Rain at many places of Jammu. Overcast at most places of Kashmir also,” it said. 
The official said that he expects sharp rise in water levels in Rivers of Jammu both plains and Hilly areas which may lead to flash flood, mudslide, shooting stones on Ramban-Banihal axis and also at other vulnerable spots. 
He advised people not to venture/visit flash flood prone area today as flash flood often occurs suddenly. 
Futhermore reports said that a bridge was washed away in Salwah village, Mendhar, due to heavy rains. “Many areas have been cut off and many people are stranded at far off places,” it said