Landslide disrupts Vaishno Devi yatra route in Jammu; battery car service suspended
PTC Web Desk: A massive landslide struck the new track to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine on Monday, triggered by continuous heavy rainfall in the Trikuta Hills region of Reasi district. While no injuries were reported, the incident has prompted the authorities to take swift action to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
According to officials, the landslide occurred near Satya View Point along the Himkoti route, a section of the new track that is typically used for battery car services — a facility especially important for elderly and differently abled pilgrims. Fortunately, there was no movement of pilgrims at the time of the landslide, preventing any casualties.
Visuals of the landslide at Vaishno Devi ji owing to rains. #landslide #Jammu pic.twitter.com/tyM42jMfIV — Sidharth Shukla (@sidhshuk) June 24, 2025
Yatra diverted to old route
In response to the landslide, the authorities temporarily suspended the battery car service, which operates along the affected route. The pilgrimage has not been stopped, and all devotees are being safely diverted to the traditional old track.
"The safety of pilgrims is our top priority," officials stated, adding that the pilgrimage continues smoothly via the alternative route. The shrine board and local administration have deployed men and machinery to clear the debris, which has spread over an area of more than 30 feet on the affected path.
The administration is actively working to clear mud, rocks, and debris caused by the landslide. Restoration of the new track is underway, and the authorities expect to reopen the route shortly once the path is deemed safe for travel.
The shrine board and district officials have appealed to pilgrims to avoid believing in rumours and to follow official advisories and instructions. "The yatra is fully operational, and no disruption has been caused to the pilgrimage itself. All necessary safety measures have been implemented," an official added.
Until normal conditions are restored, all pilgrims will continue to use the old route to reach the sacred Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.
- With inputs from agencies
