NH-44 link opens at Bonura crossing, likely to end traffic jam in Pulwama town
Pulwama, Shopian residents to get benefit
Pulwama: In a significant infrastructural boost for south Kashmir, the long-awaited connection of NH-44 with the Shopian–Pulwama main road at Bonura crossing has finally been completed, bringing relief to thousands of commuters and easing pressure on the busy town roads.
Locals from several adjoining areas on Tuesday welcomed the development, calling it a “much-needed intervention” that will reshape daily travel and reduce traffic snarls in Pulwama town.
Residents living near Pulwama town and adjoining villages said the new connectivity will allow smoother diversion of highway traffic and reduce the load on the internal road network.
Mohammad Yaseen, a shopkeeper at Bonura crossing, said , “For years, we have been struggling with congestion, especially during peak hours. With this link finally functional, the traffic flow has improved from the very first day. It feels like a big relief for us.”
Another local, Shabir Ahmad from Newa, said the linkage will also enhance accessibility to basic services. “Ambulances and passenger vehicles can now move faster. Earlier, during rush hour, even emergency movement would get stuck inside the town. This road has genuinely made a difference,” he said.
Residents also appreciated the district administration and the executing agency for pushing the project to completion. Women commuters in particular said the new route shortens their daily travel time and makes movement safer.
Rafiqa Jan, a teacher who travels daily toward Pulwama, said, “The shortcut saves us almost 15 minutes each way. It may sound small, but for regular travellers it matters a lot. We hope the administration continues such people-friendly projects.”
Locals said that Shopian and Pulwama residents will now get rid of traffic jam as they can now bypass town and reach to their destinations without getting stuck in jam now.
They also noted that the new connectivity will boost economic activity in the region. With better access to NH-44, traders believe transportation of goods will become easier and more cost-effective.
People urged authorities to continue upgrading road infrastructure and ensure regular maintenance to keep the stretch safe and smooth, especially during winter.
Overall, the completion of the NH-44–Shopian–Pulwama link at Bonura crossing has been widely welcomed as a timely step to decongest Pulwama town and improve mobility across the district.
