Jammu, Sep 18 (KNO): Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra resumed on Thursday in Reasi district after being temporarily halted on Wednesday due to inclement weather. The pilgrimage had restarted on September 17 after a 22-day suspension, but was briefly halted again as bad weather returned to the area.
Officials of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the yatra is going on smoothly, with all facilities now fully operational, allowing pilgrims to move from the base camp in Katra towards the shrine. Helicopter services, which had been momentarily suspended due to fog, have also resumed as weather conditions improved.
The yatra was originally suspended on August 26 following heavy rains. On the same day, a tragic landslide struck a shelter along the pilgrimage route, resulting in human casualties. There was visible jubilation among pilgrims and local traders at the Katra base camp as life slowly returned to normal on Thursday.
Over 3,500 devotees paid obeisance at the shrine, and a steady flow of pilgrims has continued since morning. Authorities have ensured smooth arrangements for registration, security, accommodation, and other facilities.
The Shrine Board has urged pilgrims to strictly follow safety guidelines and weather advisories to ensure a safe and hassle-free pilgrimage. “The resumption of the yatra marks a reaffirmation of our collective faith and resilience. The Board remains committed to upholding the sanctity, safety, and dignity of this pilgrimage,” an SMVDSB official said at the registration counter, where pilgrims receive RFID cards.
The Board said it expects a significant increase in footfall in the coming days as the Navratri festival, beginning on September 22 and continuing until October 1, traditionally draws large numbers of devotees—(KNO)