Jammu, September 5, 2025 : The pilgrimage to the holy cave shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir remained suspended for the 11th straight day on Friday, following the massive landslide near Adhkuwari on August 26 that claimed 34 lives and left 20 others injured.
Although the weather has shown significant improvement, with clear skies after nearly ten days of heavy rains, flash floods, and landslides, authorities have yet to decide on resuming the yatra. “Yatra is still suspended. This is due to the decision taken by authorities last week, keeping in view the safety of pilgrims,” an official said, adding that the final call will be taken only after a thorough assessment of the route and facilities.
The current suspension marks the longest halt since the COVID-19 restrictions, underlining the administration’s priority of ensuring pilgrim safety. Restoration works are underway on the heavily damaged pilgrimage track, shelter sheds, and commercial structures in Katra.
The August 26 landslide in the Trikuta hills devastated a section of the yatra route, leaving behind large-scale destruction. The tragedy has been described as one of the deadliest disasters to strike the shrine area in recent memory.
Meanwhile, the local train services between Jammu and Katra — started earlier to aid movement of locals and stranded passengers — also remained suspended. The disruption has caused inconvenience to traders, hoteliers, and service providers in Katra, where the yatra is the main source of livelihood.
Officials said the resumption of the pilgrimage will depend on a multi-agency review of the track’s stability, ongoing debris clearance, and safety measures for handling large pilgrim gatherings.
