Katra, Jammu & Kashmir: A massive landslide struck the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra track near Ardhkumari in Katra on Tuesday, leaving over 30 pilgrims dead and at least 23 others injured. The disaster occurred amid relentless rains lashing the region, triggering widespread panic and devastation.
Rescue operations are underway as teams continue searching for people feared trapped under the debris. Authorities have suspended the pilgrimage until weather conditions improve.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board issued an advisory on X, urging devotees to postpone their journey: “In view of incessant rain and inclement weather, all yatris are advised to replan their visit once conditions normalize.”
Jai Mata Di
In view of recent incessant rain and inclement weather, all the yatries are hereby advised to replan their yatra to the shrine once the weather improves.#smvdsb #yatraupdate— Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (@OfficialSMVDSB) August 26, 2025
The landslide also damaged several properties and bridges, further crippling movement in the area.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation in parts of Jammu province as “quite serious.” He said he was scheduled to fly to Jammu but was unable to do so due to the closure of the airport. “I’m closely monitoring the situation & in touch with teams on the ground,” he posted on X. The CM also briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the phone.
Earlier, Abdullah chaired a high-level meeting on flood preparedness, directing all departments to remain on high alert. Both the Tawi and Ravi rivers have crossed the danger mark, with Ravi flooding low-lying areas in Kathua.
Jai Mata Di
In view of the landslide incident at Adhkwari, a dedicated Helpline Desk has been established at E&R Niharika. May contact for the updates.Call/whatsApp:
+91 9906019460
+91 9906019446
+91 9103491554#yatraupdate #VaishnoDeviYatra #Helpline— Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (@OfficialSMVDSB) August 26, 2025
This tragedy adds to a string of natural calamities in the Himalayan belt. Just weeks ago, a flash flood triggered by a cloudburst in Kishtwar’s Chashoti village killed at least 60 people, while another cloudburst in Uttarkashi’s Dharali village, Uttarakhand, claimed four lives.
