A tragic landslide struck the old track leading to the revered Vaishno Devi shrine on Monday morning, claiming the life of one pilgrim and injuring ten others. The incident occurred near Gulshan Ka Langar in the Banganga area of Katra, the base camp for the pilgrimage in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district.
The landslide, triggered by heavy overnight rainfall, struck around 8:30 am, collapsing a booking office and overhead iron structure, where pony riders and devotees typically gather before heading to the cave shrine atop Trikuta hills, approximately 12 km from Katra.
Yatra Suspended Till 1 PM
As a precautionary measure, the Vaishno Devi yatra was temporarily suspended till 1 pm, officials said.
Casualties and Injuries
The landslide critically injured three pilgrims and caused minor injuries to seven others. One of the critically injured succumbed to their injuries.
The injured include:
- Uppan (70) and K Radha (66) from Chennai
- Rajinder Bhalla (70) from Haryana
- Leela Raikwar (56) from Uttar Pradesh
They were shifted to Narayan Hospital and the Community Health Centre, Katra for treatment. Three others — Suresh Kumar (66) from Maharashtra, and locals Nikhil Thakur (26) and Vicky Sharma — were discharged after receiving first aid.
Rescue Efforts Underway
District Magistrate and officiating CEO of the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Sachin Kumar Vaishya, rushed to the spot to oversee rescue and debris clearance operations. An earth-mover was deployed to expedite the rescue process.
“I was inside the booking office when stones started hitting the iron structure. We immediately ran out, sensing danger,” said survivor Nikhil Thakur, speaking to PTI.
Army & Civil Authorities Join Hands
Responding swiftly, the Army’s White Knight Corps launched a joint rescue operation in coordination with local authorities. “Immediate support was provided to affected locals, showcasing the Army’s unwavering commitment,” the Corps posted on X.
Heavy Rainfall in Katra
The India Meteorological Department reported 184.2 mm rainfall in Katra over the last 24 hours. Another landslide had already blocked the new yatra track near Himkoti on Sunday night. Restoration work is ongoing.
LG Manoj Sinha Expresses Grief
J&K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha expressed deep sorrow over the incident. “I am deeply saddened by the tragic landslide incident at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. Directed the Shrine Board to ensure the best possible medical care. I’m constantly monitoring the situation,” he posted on X.
