Katra/Jammu, September 3, 2025 : The pilgrimage to the revered Mata Vaishno Devi shrine atop Trikuta hills remained suspended for the ninth consecutive day on Wednesday after Katra—the base camp—recorded over 200 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours, the highest across the Jammu region, officials said.
Suspension Since August 26
The yatra was first suspended on August 26, just hours before a massive landslide struck the old track near Ardhkuwari, killing 34 pilgrims and injuring 20 others. Since then, authorities have kept the pilgrimage halted in view of safety concerns, though the shrine itself remains open with priests continuing daily prayers and rituals.
Devotees Offering Prayers at Darshani Deodi
Despite the suspension, several pilgrims who had already reached Katra are offering prayers at Darshani Deodi—the main gateway on the path to the shrine. The spot is considered the point of the first symbolic darshan of the holy shrine.
Pramod, a devotee from Nagpur, Maharashtra, said he was returning home after offering prayers at Darshani Deodi. “I booked my flight, train, and hotel tickets three months ago to offer prayers at the shrine. But with the yatra suspended, I prayed here before returning. I am not disappointed, and I believe Mata has called me—I will come again when conditions allow.”
Rainfall, Rivers Swell, Tracks Unsafe
Officials said incessant rainfall has significantly raised water levels in rivers and streams, including the Banganga river that flows through Katra. The heavy downpour has also caused multiple landslides and waterlogging, rendering the 12-km twin tracks—old and new routes—unsafe for movement.
Authorities on Alert
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, along with district administration and disaster response teams, is monitoring the situation closely. Officials said that resumption of the pilgrimage will only be considered once weather conditions improve and the tracks are fully cleared and secured for devotees.
“Safety of pilgrims is paramount. A decision on reopening the yatra will be taken after ensuring that both tracks are stable and all risk factors are addressed,” an official said.
