Reasi, September 16, 2025 : The pilgrimage to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi remained suspended for the 22nd consecutive day today from the base camp at Katra in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. The yatra, initially scheduled to resume on September 14, was once again postponed due to persistent adverse weather conditions.
An official of the Shrine Board said,
“The commencement of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra stands postponed until further orders. Devotees are advised to stay updated via official communication channels.”
The decision comes in the aftermath of a devastating landslide on August 26, which resulted in the deaths of 34 people, mostly pilgrims, and left several others injured. The landslide was triggered by heavy rains near the Inderprastha Bhojnalaya at Adhkuwari, raising serious concerns about the safety of the route.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, also chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, has formed a high-level three-member committee to probe the causes of the tragedy.
The committee, headed by Additional Chief Secretary Shaleen Kabra, includes Jammu Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar and IGP Jammu B S Tuti. A comprehensive report is expected to be submitted to LG Sinha in due course.
In anticipation of the upcoming Navratras festival, scheduled to start from September 22, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board CEO Sachin Kumar Vaishya chaired a meeting at the Spiritual Growth Centre, Katra, on September 13. The CEO emphasized the expected large influx of devotees and urged close coordination among all stakeholders to ensure a seamless and safe pilgrimage experience during the festive period.
He stressed that preparations were underway to ensure hassle-free services, urging proactive action on all fronts, including infrastructure, security, and health services, to manage the anticipated rush of pilgrims.
As of now, no fresh date has been announced for the resumption of the Yatra.
