JAMMU, July 25 -- The 250-km-long Jammu-Srinagar national highway (NH 44) remained closed for the third consecutive day on Friday following multiple landslides, shooting stones and road erosion triggered by incessant rains, especially in Ramban and Udhampur districts.

Incessant rains since Sunday have claimed 25 lives so far across Jammu region, where Poonch district bore the maximum brunt with 16 deaths. Around six people still remain missing.

"Heavy rains have triggered multiple landslides and mudslies at Dewal bridge in Samroli, Jakhani in Udhampur district and Banihal in Ramban district," said a police officer.

Though NHAI has initiated restoration work but inclement weather hampered it at several affected stretches, he added. Acco...