J-K: Vaishno Devi Yatra resumes after six-day weather-induced suspension; authorities declare track "safe for pilgrims"
Katra, July 25
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra resumed on Saturday after remaining suspended for six consecutive days due to adverse weather conditions and safety concerns triggered by heavy rainfall in the region. The pilgrimage was restored after authorities reviewed the weather situation and declared the track safe for pilgrims.
Pilgrims have been advised to follow the directions of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board and security agencies, adhere to safety advisories, and stay updated on weather conditions during their journey. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.
The suspension had been imposed as a precautionary measure following continuous rain, landslides, and the risk of flash floods along the route.
Earlier, Katra, the base camp of the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, wore a deserted look.
The pilgrimage was suspended as a precautionary measure amid inclement weather.
It resulted in a significant decline in pilgrim movement across Katra, which otherwise remains bustling with devotees throughout the day.
Meanwhile, traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH44) was also suspended due to heavy and incessant rainfall, triggering mudslides and shooting stones at multiple locations along the highway.
No vehicles were allowed to proceed from either Qazigund in Kashmir or Udhampur towards Ramban amid the adverse weather conditions.
Heavy rainfall also lashed Bhalesa in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district, causing rivers, streams and drains to swell and damaging houses, crops and agricultural land.
Amid flash floods, cloudbursts and landslides, the administrations of Doda and Kishtwar urged people to avoid high-altitude, landslide-prone and riverbank areas until weather conditions improve.
Meanwhile, the continuous rain has transformed the surrounding hills into mist-covered vistas, while low-hanging clouds and dense fog reduced visibility in several areas.
The continuous rainfall in Reasi and upper catchment areas triggered a surge in water inflow into the Salal reservoir, prompting authorities to open all gates of the dam to regulate the rising water level.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good decision to resume after checking safety. But why did it take six days? Many pilgrims had to cancel their plans last minute. Better coordination between Shrine Board and Met department could have helped.
Jai Mata Di! 🙏 The track being declared safe is great news. But the landslides and floods in Doda and Kishtwar are worrying. Hope the administration is also helping local families affected by the rains.
So happy yatra has resumed! My grandparents were stuck waiting in Katra for days. They said the town felt empty - usually it's so lively. Hope everyone who goes now has a safe journey. 🚩
Finally! But why did they wait so long? Other yatras in hilly areas resume sooner after rains. Also, opening Salal dam gates shows how serious the flood risk was. Devotees should carry rain gear and stay cautious.
A very wise move to suspend and then resume after checking safety. The mountains can be unpredictable in monsoon. Maa Vaishno Devi will bless all pilgrims who make the journey now. Stay safe, everyone! 🌧️⛰️
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.