Vaishno Devi Yatra Postponed Again Due to Heavy Rains in Jammu and Kashmir
Heavy rains have once again disrupted the popular Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board announced that the pilgrimage, set to restart on September 14, now stands postponed until further notice. This comes after 14 straight days of suspension caused by bad weather and landslides.
The board shared an update on social media platform X, urging devotees to check official channels for the latest news. "Due to incessant rain at Bhawan and the track, the commencement of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra scheduled from 14th September stands postponed till further order," the post stated. "Devotees are requested to stay updated through official communication channels."
Earlier, the shrine board thanked pilgrims for their patience during the halt. They highlighted how resuming the yatra shows everyone’s strong faith and determination. The board promised to keep the holy journey safe, sacred, and respectful for all.
Safety remains the top priority. Non-stop rainfall has sparked more landslides, blocking paths to the shrine and making the trek risky for devotees. Even the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway faces issues with roadblocks and damage from slides, cutting off easy access to the area.
This extended pause has left many pilgrims disappointed, especially those who traveled far. Local shops and businesses around Katra, which thrive on the Vaishno Devi Yatra tourism, are also struggling without the usual crowds.
The trouble started with a tragic landslide on August 26. It hit around 3 pm near Inderprastha Bhojnalaya at Adhkuwari, midway on the 12-km trek from Katra base camp to the shrine. Heavy rains caused the massive slide, killing 34 people and injuring others. That incident forced the initial suspension, and wet weather has kept things shut ever since.
Devotees planning a visit to Mata Vaishno Devi should keep an eye on updates from the shrine board. As rains ease, officials hope to reopen the tracks soon, letting the pilgrimage resume safely.
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