The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra in Reasi district remained suspended for the ninth consecutive day on Wednesday due to persistent heavy rainfall, landslides, and unsafe conditions in the Trikuta Hills.
Authorities said the pilgrimage will only resume once the weather improves and all approach routes are declared safe. Rescue and restoration teams remain on high alert, while the base camp at Katra appears deserted, with many devotees still waiting for the yatra’s resumption.
The pilgrimage was suspended on August 27 after a landslide triggered by torrential rains claimed 34 lives. Following the tragedy, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha ordered a high-level probe headed by Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary (Jal Shakti Department), along with the Divisional Commissioner and Inspector General of Police, Jammu.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for several districts across Jammu & Kashmir, including Reasi, Rajouri, Ramban, Udhampur, Kathua, Doda, and Kishtwar, as well as parts of Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Haryana.
In the past 24 hours, Reasi recorded 230.5 mm of rainfall, Katra 193 mm, and Doda 114 mm, among other heavy downpours across the region. With rivers in spate and flood-like conditions reported, officials have urged residents and pilgrims to avoid vulnerable areas until further notice.
