The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has officially resumed after being suspended for six days due to adverse weather conditions in Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities reopened the pilgrimage after confirming that the route had become safe for devotees following detailed inspections and improved weather conditions.
The suspension had been imposed as a precautionary measure after continuous rainfall triggered landslides and increased the risk of flash floods along the pilgrimage track leading to the revered shrine in the Trikuta Hills.
Route Declared Safe for Pilgrims
Officials from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), in coordination with local authorities and disaster management teams, carried out safety inspections before allowing the pilgrimage to resume.
The Shrine Board confirmed that the track is now considered safe for movement, although authorities continue to closely monitor weather conditions and the stability of the route. Pilgrims have been urged to follow all instructions issued by security personnel and Shrine Board officials throughout their journey.
Suspension Followed Heavy Rain and Landslides
The pilgrimage was halted after persistent rainfall affected several parts of Jammu and Kashmir. The difficult weather conditions led to landslides and raised concerns over the safety of thousands of devotees travelling along the mountainous route.
Authorities had suspended both the Vaishno Devi Yatra and the Amarnath Yatra as a preventive measure to avoid any untoward incidents during the period of severe weather.
Pilgrims Advised to Follow Safety Guidelines
With the yatra resuming, devotees have been advised to:
- Follow directions issued by the Shrine Board and security agencies.
- Keep track of official weather updates.
- Avoid unnecessary halts in vulnerable areas.
- Cooperate with emergency response teams and local administration.
- Travel only on designated routes approved by authorities.
Officials have emphasised that safety remains the highest priority and that appropriate action will be taken if weather conditions deteriorate again.
Authorities Continue Monitoring Weather
Although the pilgrimage has resumed, officials remain on high alert as the monsoon season continues across Jammu and Kashmir. Teams from the administration, disaster management authorities, and security agencies are conducting continuous surveillance of the pilgrimage route to ensure the safety of devotees.
The Shrine Board has assured pilgrims that any future decisions regarding the yatra will be based on real-time weather assessments and expert recommendations.
Relief for Thousands of Devotees
The reopening of the Vaishno Devi Yatra has brought relief to thousands of pilgrims whose travel plans were affected by the weather-induced suspension. With the track now reopened and declared safe, devotees have begun their journey to the holy shrine once again under enhanced safety arrangements.
Authorities have reiterated that while the pilgrimage has resumed, all visitors should remain cautious, follow official advisories, and prioritise safety throughout their spiritual journey.
