Yatra diverted, no casualties; IMD predicts more rains across J&K
Jammu: A massive landslide triggered by heavy rainfall struck the new track leading to the revered Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Reasi district on Monday, prompting authorities to suspend the battery car service along the Himkoti route. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported.
According to officials, the landslide occurred near the Satya View Point at a time when no pilgrims were on that section of the track. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) immediately deployed men and machinery to clear the debris, which had spread over a 30-feet stretch.
As a precautionary measure, the pilgrimage was swiftly diverted to the traditional route, ensuring that the yatra continued without interruption.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported isolated to fairly widespread rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir over the past 24 hours. The maximum temperature in Jammu was recorded at 36.6°C, while Katra — the base camp for the Vaishno Devi shrine — registered 32.5°C.
The IMD also noted that temperatures in Kashmir remained above normal by 2–4°C in most areas, while Jammu division saw slightly cooler conditions, with some areas recording below-normal temperatures.
Precipitation levels were significant in parts of Jammu, with RS Pura receiving the highest rainfall at 31.5 mm. The weather forecast for the next 24 hours predicts isolated to scattered light rain and thunderstorms with gusty winds across the region. The outlook for the next two days suggests fairly widespread light to moderate rainfall.
Authorities have urged pilgrims and locals to remain cautious as the region continues to experience unstable weather patterns.
