Section 144 in Jammu and Kashmir: Goods trucks stranded for 2 days; huge losses expected

Madhopur: Kashmir remained on edge as authorities beefed up security at vital installations and in sensitive areas, suspended mobile internet services and either “arrested” or “detained” several leaders in fast-paced developments on Sunday night after Article 370 of Indian Constitution was abolished by the Centre. Officials said restrictions on movement of people would come into force in Kashmir Valley at the crack of dawn. Mobile Internet services have been suspended in Kashmir Valley, the officials said, adding that satellite phones were being provided to police officials and district magistrates.

This has also led to stalling of goods trucks on the road outside Jammu border at Pathankot for two days. The drivers of the lorries have demanded that section 144 be revoked. Most of the trucks have vegetables and if not transported in time will perish and result in a huge loss for owners.

Everyday hundreds of goods trucks carrying various materials including perishable goods from Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan and Delhi travel to Jammu and Kashmir.