Amarnath, Vaishno Devi Yatra suspended from July 19 as Jammu and Kashmir braces for heavy rains
PTC News Desk: As heavy rain continues across Jammu and Kashmir, authorities have temporarily suspended both the Amarnath Yatra and the Vaishno Devi Yatra as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
Officials said no pilgrims will be allowed to move ahead from the Baltal and Nunwan/Chandanwari base camps in Kashmir. In Jammu, no new pilgrim convoys will be permitted to leave from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas until further notice.
Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday said that Amarnath and Mata Vaishno Devi Yatras will be temporarily suspended from July 19 due to the inclement weather forecast.
"In view of inclement weather forecast issued by India Meteorological Department (IMD), Shri Amarnathji Yatra shall remain temporarily suspended from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes with effect from 19.07.2026 as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of the pilgrims," Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg said in a statement.
Authorities said the Amarnath Yatra will resume only after the routes are declared safe and weather conditions improve. Fresh updates will be issued through official channels.
So far, more than 3.76 lakh devotees have visited the holy Amarnath cave shrine during this year's pilgrimage.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate to widespread rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir from July 19 to July 23, prompting the suspension.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board also confirmed that the Vaishno Devi Yatra has been temporarily suspended due to the adverse weather.
Officials said the decision was taken in the interest of public safety after forecasts warned of heavy rain and difficult weather conditions. Devotees have been urged to cooperate with the authorities, avoid travelling to the shrines until further orders, and follow official updates regarding the resumption of both pilgrimages.
- With inputs from agencies
