Mata Vaishno Devi Landslide: Death Toll Rises To 30, Rescue Operations Continue Amid Heavy Rains In Jammu

Tragedy Strikes Vaishno Devi Yatra Route

Reasi, Jammu & Kashmir: In a heart-wrenching incident, at least 30 people have died and over 20 others sustained injuries after a massive landslide struck the pilgrimage route to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district. Triggered by incessant heavy rains, the landslide occurred near Inderprastha Bhojnalaya at Adhkwar, a point along the 12-kilometre trek from Katra to the revered hilltop temple.

The tragedy unfolded on Tuesday afternoon, forcing authorities to suspend the yatra as rescue operations were launched immediately. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Reasi, Paramvir Singh, confirmed the death toll and described the incident as one of the most severe natural disasters to hit the pilgrimage route in recent years.

Rescue Operations in Full Swing

The landslide left scores of devotees stranded on the hilly path. Teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Jammu & Kashmir Police, and the local administration were swiftly deployed for rescue and relief operations.

The CRPF’s 6th Battalion reported that its personnel swiftly evacuated the injured and shifted them to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Katra for urgent treatment. Along with medical support, stranded pilgrims were provided shelter and food as part of ongoing relief measures.

Officials confirmed that rescue efforts were hampered by continuous downpours, with heavy rain causing multiple landslides in the surrounding region. Despite the challenges, emergency teams are continuing round-the-clock operations to clear debris, treat the injured, and ensure the safety of surviving pilgrims.

Yatra Suspended for Safety

The Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, one of the most visited shrines in India, witnesses lakhs of devotees every year. Authorities had earlier suspended movement on the Himkoti route due to safety concerns, while the old route remained operational until 1:30 pm, when officials were forced to suspend the yatra entirely after the disaster struck.

This precautionary suspension is expected to remain in place until weather conditions improve and the route is deemed safe for pilgrims.

Leaders Express Condolences

The devastating incident has drawn widespread condolences from national leaders. Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed grief, describing the tragedy as “extremely unfortunate.” He spoke with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, assuring the Union Territory administration of full support from the Centre in rescue and relief efforts.

BJP National President JP Nadda also called the incident “extremely heartbreaking” in his message on social media, extending prayers for the departed souls and strength to the bereaved families.

Heavy Rains Wreak Havoc Across Jammu Region
 

The landslide is part of a broader pattern of destruction caused by relentless rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir over the past two days. The region has been battered by flash floods, road blockages, and infrastructure damage.

• Telecom services have collapsed in many areas, cutting off communication for thousands of residents.
• Traffic movement on the Jammu-Srinagar and Kishtwar-Doda national highways has been suspended due to landslides. Several other hilly roads remain blocked, severely disrupting connectivity.
• All government and private schools across Jammu division have been ordered to shut until August 27, while the JK Board of School Education postponed Class 10 and 11 exams scheduled for Wednesday.
   

Officials warn that further landslides and flooding remain a risk as rainfall continues.

A Somber Reminder for Pilgrims

For devotees of Mata Vaishno Devi, the tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the risks associated with pilgrimage during extreme weather. The shrine, located in the Trikuta hills, draws millions of visitors each year, making it one of India’s holiest and busiest pilgrimage spots.

Safety protocols and weather advisories have been issued repeatedly in the past, but unpredictable monsoon conditions continue to pose challenges. Authorities have urged pilgrims to avoid travel until the situation stabilizes and to follow official updates regarding the resumption of the yatra.

Looking Ahead

As rescue teams continue to battle rain and debris, the priority remains on saving lives and supporting the injured. Officials have confirmed that the NDRF and CRPF units will remain on high alert until the area is secured and safe passage is restored for future pilgrims.

The Mata Vaishno Devi landslide tragedy, claiming 30 lives and leaving many injured, has plunged Jammu and Kashmir into mourning. It highlights the urgent need for strengthened disaster preparedness, especially in vulnerable pilgrimage routes that attract thousands daily.

For now, the sacred chants of “Jai Mata Di” resonate with grief as the nation prays for the departed souls and strength for their families.