- By Chetna Shree
- Tue, 24 Jun 2025 01:56 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
A massive landslide triggered by heavy rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir's Vaishno Devi shrine on the new access route has led to the temporary suspension of battery car and helicopter services. The cable car services from Bhawan to Bhairav Valley was also halted. The incident took place on June 23 near the Satya View Point along the Himkoti route, a new access route to the shrine. However, no casualties were reported due to the landslide, officials confirmed. The pilgrims were diverted to the old route.
Despite the incident, the pilgrims continued their trek chanting slogans in praise of Maa Vaishno Devi with their friends, families and companions.
Heavy Rains In Katra And Trikuta Hills
Heavy rains lashed several districts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Katra and Trikuta Hills on Sunday. The rainwater accumulated near the mountainside on the new access route, which resulted in the falling of rocks and debris. Following to this, a landslide occurred on the new access route.
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Old Route To Shrine Reopened
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) immediately ordered to open the old route to the shrine after the landslide took place. The battery-car assisted route, cable car and helicopter services were temporarily closed for pilgrims as a safety precaution.
For the safety of pilgrims, the Disaster Management Team quickly arrived at the spot and checked for any damage if caused. According to the latest information, there were no casualties reported in the landslide. However, the authorities emphasised the safety concerns of pilgrims and advised them to travel on the foot-only path as heavy rains can lead to damage in the new route.
The SMVDSB is continuously monitoring the situation with the disaster management team and working to restore the new access route. “The shrine board immediately pressed its men and machines to clear the debris which is spread over more than a 30-feet area,” officials said. The authorities have urged the pilgrims to check the latest updates from the official sites and keep a check on the weather conditions before venturing on a trek to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.