The pilgrimage to the revered Mata Vaishno Devi Cave Shrine in Trikuta Hills remained suspended for the 21st consecutive day on Sunday, as authorities continue to assess safety concerns following the devastating landslide of August 26.
“The commencement of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra, scheduled from yesterday, stands postponed till further orders,” an official of the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) said. “Devotees are requested to stay updated through official communication channels.”
The tragic landslide near Inderprastha Bhojnalaya at Adhkuwari, triggered by heavy rains, claimed 34 lives—most of them pilgrims—and left several others injured, leading to the prolonged suspension of the yatra from the base camp in Katra, Reasi district.
In the aftermath, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also chairs the Shrine Board, constituted a high-level three-member committee to probe the incident. The committee, headed by Additional Chief Secretary (Jal Shakti) Shaleen Kabra, with Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar and Inspector General of Police Jammu B.S. Tuti as members, has been tasked to submit a comprehensive report to the LG.
Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the upcoming Navratra festival beginning September 22, when the Shrine traditionally witnesses a massive rush of devotees. On September 13, Shrine Board CEO Sachin Kumar Vaishya chaired a joint meeting at the Spiritual Growth Centre, Katra, to review arrangements.(KINS)
