Jammu: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi (SMVD) Yatra remained suspended for the fifth straight day amid ongoing weather challenges in Jammu region while special trains have been arranged from Jammu to Delhi for the stranded passengers.
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), which manages Yatra, has announced that the pilgrimage to the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine in Trikuta Hills, Reasi district, remains suspended for the fifth consecutive day due to persistent adverse weather conditions and the aftermath of a devastating landslide on August 26.
Reports said that landslide, triggered by a cloudburst, claimed 34 lives and injured 18 others, prompting the suspension of the yatra to ensure pilgrim safety.
The SMVDSB clarified that the yatra was halted at noon on August 26, prior to the cloudburst, following a weather advisory, refuting claims of negligence.
The old ascendancy track near Inderprastha Bhojanalaya, described as one of the safest locations, was severely impacted by the landslide, and efforts to clear debris and restore the track for safe pilgrimage are ongoing.
The board has emphasized that the safety of devotees remains paramount and the yatra will resume only when conditions are deemed secure.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted continued heavy rainfall in Reasi, Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Udhampur, Ramban, Doda, and Kishtwar, prompting advisories to avoid water bodies and landslide-prone areas.
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remains closed due to landslides and stone shooting at multiple locations, further complicating travel.
Meanwhile, to assist stranded pilgrims and residents, the Jammu Rail Division has arranged special trains to facilitate travel from Jammu to Delhi. On August 30, two special trains ran between Jammu and Delhi, connecting major cities.
These trains, equipped with economical air-conditioned coaches, will stop at Sonepat, Panipat, Karnal, Kurukshetra Jn, Ambala Cantt, Ludhiana, Jalandhar Cantt, Pathankot Cantt, Jammu Tawi.
The SMVDSB urged pilgrims to stay updated on weather advisories and yatra status through official channels. Further announcements regarding the resumption of the yatra will be made as conditions improve
