Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage Resumes After 22-Day Suspension

SRINAGAR: The pilgrimage to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine atop Trikuta Hills in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district resumed on Wednesday after remaining suspended for 22 days due to a devastating landslide that killed 34 people and injured 20, officials confirmed, as reported by Daily Excelsior.

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) said the yatra recommenced at 6 am from both routes leading to the hilltop shrine, subject to favourable weather conditions. The resumption drew large crowds of devotees at Katra town, the base camp, where hundreds had been waiting to embark on the spiritual journey. Pilgrims chanted “Jai Mata Di” as they crossed the Banganga Darshani gate, the traditional starting point.

The board said the temporary suspension had been necessary owing to inclement weather and urgent maintenance of the track. It has advised pilgrims to carry valid identification, adhere to designated pathways and cooperate with staff. Radio Frequency Identity Card (RFID)-based tracking remains mandatory to ensure transparency and traceability.

“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 revered pilgrimage,” a shrine board official said.

Many devotees expressed relief and joy. “We reached the base camp from Pune two days ago. It was a difficult wait, but we were sure we would have darshan before returning home,” said a woman pilgrim from Maharashtra. Others described the reopening as a “special blessing.”

The shrine board thanked devotees for their patience and urged strict adherence to safety guidelines. With Navratri scheduled from 22 September to 1 October, officials expect a sharp rise in pilgrim numbers in the coming days.

The yatra had been suspended on 26 August, just hours before a massive landslide struck the route, causing significant loss of life and prompting extensive safety checks before reopening.