Another landslide strikes Mata Vaishno Devi shrine; debris blocks pilgrimage route - what we know so far

Another landslide struck the pilgrimage track leading to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district on Wednesday.

The landslide occurred at Sammar Point, blocking the route to the shrine. Authorities said no casualties or injuries were reported as there were no pilgrims on the track at the time. Efforts are underway to clear the debris.

Official accommodations have been vacated as continuous heavy rainfall adds to the risk of further landslides, as a precautionary measure.

Several trains en route J&K remain suspended

Meanwhile, Northern Railway has cancelled 68 incoming and outgoing trains from Jammu and Katra stations till September 30, while 24 trains are scheduled to resume, reported PTI.

Rail services in the Jammu division have remained suspended for the past eight days due to misalignment and breaches at multiple points on the Pathankot-Jammu section after heavy rains and flash floods.

Heavy rain triggered previous landslide, killing 34

The incident comes days after a deadly landslide hit the Vaishno Devi track on August 26, leaving 34 dead near Ardhkuwari.

Sharing a post on X, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board said, "A landslide incident has occurred near Inderprastha Bhojnalaya at Adhkwari, some injuries are feared. Rescue operations are underway along with required manpower and machinery."



The incident occurred about halfway along the 12-km trek to the hilltop temple, later leading to suspension of the yatra. The incident came amid heavy rainfall lashing Jammu and Kashmir.

Victims in the landslide were from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi and Punjab. At least 20 others were reportedly injured.

Vaishno Devi landslide tragedy saddening: PM Modi

PM Modi expressed grief over the Vaishno Devi landslide tragedy that claimed 34 lives so far. He said the administration is extending all possible help to those affected.

On X, the Prime Minister posted: "The loss of lives due to a landslide on the route to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple is saddening. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover at the earliest. The administration is assisting all those affected. My prayers for everyone's safety and well-being."



Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced an ex gratia of Rs 9 lakh for the families of the victims, while Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath sanctioned Rs 4 lakh each to the kin of the 11 pilgrims from his state who lost their lives.


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