Crisis on Vaishno Devi Yatra: Yatra suspended on the 13th day also due to rain and landslides

The Vaishno Devi Yatra remains suspended for the 13th day due to heavy rain and landslides. Thousands of stranded devotees await safe passage as rescue efforts and investigations continue.

New Delhi: At this time, nature is standing as a big obstacle in the path of devotion and faith. Thousands of devotees from all over the country are staying in Katra to visit Maa Vaishno Devi, but due to continuous rain, landslides, and closure of roads in the Trikuta hills, the Yatra is closed for the 13th day also.

The administration has made it clear that the Yatra will not be started until the weather is completely favorable and the route is declared completely safe.

Vaishno Devi records 94.8 lakh pilgrims in 2024; Second highest in decade

26 August tragedy: 34 killed in landslide in Adhkuwari

The crisis started on August 26 when a landslide occurred after heavy rains near Adhkuwari. The accident took place around 3 pm near Inderprastha Bhojlaya, which is considered the midpoint of the 12 km journey from Katra to Bhawan. 34 devotees lost their lives, and many were injured in this tragic incident. The pilgrimage was stopped only after this.

The lieutenant governor ordered an investigation

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has constituted a high-level committee to investigate the accident. This committee will be headed by Additional Chief Secretary of the Jal Shakti Department Shaleen Kabra.

J&K LG forms 3-member committee to probe Vaishno Devi Landslide; 34 Devotees killed

The committee also includes the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu and the Inspector General of Police. This committee will submit a report in two weeks, which will review the reasons for the accident, relief and rescue work, and suggest measures to prevent such accidents in the future.

Cloudburst in Doda: Army builds temporary bridge

On the other hand, due to cloudbursts and floods in the Bhaderwah area of ​​the Doda district, many villages lost contact. Seeing the crisis, the 4th National Rifles Unit of the Army restored the movement of people by building a temporary wooden bridge within 18 hours. The promptness of the army has given great relief to the local people.

The test of faith is going on in the Vaishno Devi Yatra. Devotees are hoping that the weather improves soon and they get an opportunity to have darshan of the mother. The administration and the army are also making every possible effort to ensure the safety of the devotees.