Landslide on Vaishno Devi Route Claims 31 Lives in Jammu & Kashmir
Katra (J&K): A massive landslide triggered by incessant heavy rains on the Vaishno Devi Yatra route in Jammu and Kashmir has left at least 31 people dead and several others injured, plunging the holy town of Katra into mourning. The incident occurred on Wednesday when a large portion of a hillside gave way, burying sections of the pilgrimage path under rocks and debris.
Rescue Operations Underway
Authorities immediately launched large-scale rescue operations. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local administration rushed to the site. With roads blocked and debris scattered across the route, helicopters were deployed to airlift the critically injured to nearby hospitals. Officials confirmed that emergency medical camps have been set up to treat survivors.
Vaishno Devi Yatra Suspended Amid Safety Concerns
Following the disaster, the Vaishno Devi Yatra has been suspended until further notice. The pilgrimage route, which attracts lakhs of devotees every year, remains unsafe due to continuous rainfall and the threat of more landslides. Authorities have urged pilgrims to postpone their travel plans until weather conditions improve and the route is restored.
Leaders Express Grief
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, offering condolences to the bereaved families. “Prayers for everyone’s safety. The nation stands with the affected families in this hour of grief,” he said. Several Union and state leaders also expressed condolences, promising every possible support to those affected.
Weather Warnings in Place
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted more heavy rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir in the coming days. Officials fear that additional landslides and flash floods could occur, making rescue operations even more challenging. Disaster management teams have been placed on high alert, particularly in vulnerable areas along the pilgrimage route.
A Vaishno Devi Yatra Route at Risk
The Vaishno Devi shrine, situated in the Trikuta hills, is one of the most visited pilgrimage destinations in India. Each year, millions of devotees undertake the arduous journey to seek blessings of the holy goddess. However, its mountainous terrain makes the route vulnerable to natural calamities, particularly during the monsoon season.
Call for Stronger Safety Measures While Vaishno Devi Yatra
This tragedy has once again highlighted the need for enhanced safety measures on the yatra route. Experts stress the importance of improved early warning systems, better slope management, and stronger infrastructure to minimize risks in such disaster-prone zones.
As rescue teams continue their search operations, the nation mourns the lives lost in this devastating landslide. For many families, the annual pilgrimage has turned into a heartbreaking tragedy, underscoring the urgent need to balance faith, safety, and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury.