• Source:JND
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The Vaishno Devi Yatra resumed on Wednesday, 22 days after authorities suspended the pilgrimage in Jammu and Kashmir’s Katra district following a cloudburst-triggered landslide that left 34 devotees dead and 20 injured.

The yatra commenced at 6 am on both routes leading to the shrine, with devotees chanting ‘Jai Mata Di’ as they began their journey. The pilgrimage had earlier been suspended following a massive landslide that claimed 34 lives and left 20 others injured. 

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The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) announced the resumption of the yatra this morning, subject to favourable weather conditions. The decision brought relief and joy to devotees who had been waiting in Katra, the base camp for the pilgrimage to the shrine.

“Jai Mata Di Vaishno Devi Yatra shall resume from September 17, 2025 (Wednesday) subject to favorable weather conditions. Devotees are requested to stay updated through official communication channels," SMVD Board posted Yesterday.

Advisory To Pilgrims 

Pilgrims have been advised to carry valid identification, follow designated pathways, and cooperate with on-ground staff. Officials also stressed that Radio Frequency Identity Card (RFID)-based tracking remains mandatory to ensure transparency and traceability.

The Shrine Board expressed gratitude to devotees for their patience and understanding during the suspension of the yatra. "The resumption of the Yatra marks a reaffirmation of our collective faith and resilience and the board remains committed to upholding the sanctity, safety and dignity of this revered pilgrimage," an official said.

Pilgrims described the resumption of the yatra as a special day, calling their visit to the shrine a blessing and thanking officials for making it possible. The Shrine Board has urged devotees to strictly follow safety guidelines and rely on official communication channels for updates.

A pilgrim from Nagpur said, "We were waiting for the past four days for the yatra to resume. We had tickets for the 20th but were about to cancel them. Last night, we received a notification that the yatra would restart. I am very happy, and now I will be able to complete my yatra. Mata Rani will fulfil my wishes and keep everyone happy."

With the route now declared safe, a large turnout of pilgrims is expected in the coming days, particularly during the Navratri festival from September 22 to October 1. 

Umesh, another pilgrim from Nagpur, shared, "I feel very lucky that the yatra has resumed. I had been waiting for many days and many years. It was in my destiny to complete this pilgrimage and worship Mata. I believed the yatra would reopen. She was only a little angry, but I was sure I would get to see her."

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Another devotee, Harshal, said, "We had been waiting for three days. We even cancelled our return ticket to Andaman yesterday. We feel lucky that the Yatra has started."

(With Agency Inputs)