Landslide Danger Prompts Closure of Hotels, Shops in Katra

SRINAGAR: The Sub-Divisional Magistrate Katra on Sunday ordered the immediate vacation of all commercial establishments, including hotels and dharamshalas, located between Asia Chowk to Balini Bridge and from Balini Bridge to Darshani Deodi, citing safety concerns due to landslides and sinking roads.

Order issued by SDM Piyush Dhotra (JKAS) stated, “Heavy rains and inclement weather have triggered massive landslides near Balini Bridge and other vulnerable spots, posing a serious risk to pilgrims visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra. The continued operation of these establishments without safety clearance endangers public safety.”

The SDM directed that no establishment in the vulnerable stretch will be allowed to operate until a safety certificate is obtained from the Executive Engineer, PWD (R&B), Katra.

The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, will be implemented immediately by the Superintendent of Police, Katra. (KNC)