Vaishno Devi Yatra Halted for 17th Consecutive Day Amid Safety Concerns
Pilgrims await clarity from Shrine Board as Navratras approach, probe panel investigating August 26 tragedy
JAMMU, Sept 11: The suspension of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra entered its 17th consecutive day on Thursday, with the pilgrimage from Katra town in Reasi district still halted due to landslides along the route.
The yatra was suspended after a massive landslide, triggered by heavy rains on August 26 near Indraprastha Bhojnalaya at Ardhkuwari, claimed the lives of 34 people most of them pilgrims and left several others injured.
With the Navratras beginning on September 22, the Katra trader community has urged the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board to provide clarity on the resumption of the pilgrimage, as uncertainty continues to impact both devotees and local businesses.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also chairman of the Shrine Board, has set up a high-level three-member inquiry committee to investigate the causes of the August 26 tragedy. Headed by Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary of the Jal Shakti Department, the panel includes Jammu Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar and Inspector General of Police (Jammu) B.S. Tuti. The committee has been directed to submit a comprehensive report within two weeks.
