PM Modi Mourns Loss Of Lives In Vaishno Devi Landslide

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in the landslide that struck the Vaishno Devi route near Adhkuwari in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district. At least 32 pilgrims have died and 20 others sustained injuries in the tragedy triggered by incessant rain.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister wrote, “The loss of lives due to a landslide on the route to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple is saddening. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover at the earliest. The administration is assisting all those affected. My prayers for everyone’s safety and well-being.”

The loss of lives due to a landslide on the route to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple is saddening. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover at the earliest. The administration is assisting all those affected. My prayers for everyone’s safety and…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 27, 2025

The incident occurred around 3 pm on Tuesday, roughly midway along the 12-km trek from Katra to the hilltop shrine, when large boulders and debris came crashing down, trapping devotees on the path.

Authorities said the pilgrimage was halted on the Himkoti trek route earlier in the day due to heavy rain. The old route, however, remained open until 1.30 pm, when it too was closed following worsening conditions.

Rescue and relief operations are still underway, with officials closely monitoring the situation.