Sep 3: The holy town of Katra, base camp for the revered Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, has recorded the highest rainfall in the Jammu region, receiving nearly 200 millimetres of rain in the last 24 hours. The torrential downpour has thrown normal life out of gear and forced the suspension of the Vaishno Devi Yatra as a precautionary measure.
Authorities confirmed that the unprecedented rainfall has triggered concerns over landslides, flash floods, and slippery tracks along the pilgrimage route. With the safety of devotees being the top priority, shrine authorities and the district administration jointly decided to temporarily halt the pilgrimage until conditions stabilize.
Thousands of devotees who had already reached Katra were requested to stay put at their accommodations. Adequate arrangements have been made by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board to provide food, shelter, and assistance to the stranded pilgrims. Additional security and disaster response personnel have been deployed to monitor vulnerable stretches of the yatra track and to respond swiftly to any emergencies.
Local residents reported waterlogging, disrupted power supply, and blocked roads in parts of Katra town, though efforts are underway to restore essential services. The Meteorological Department has forecast that the heavy rainfall may continue in isolated pockets, prompting the administration to remain on high alert.
Officials assured that the pilgrimage will resume only after the weather improves and the route is declared safe for devotees. Meanwhile, continuous monitoring of rainfall, track conditions, and embankments around Katra and adjoining areas is being carried out.
The suspension of the yatra, though disappointing for thousands of devotees, has been widely supported as a necessary step to prevent accidents and safeguard lives during this extreme weather spell.
