Jammu, Sep 5 (PTI) The pilgrimage to the revered cave shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district continues to be halted for the 11th straight day as of Friday.
The yatra was paused following a devastating landslide on August 26 that tragically claimed 34 lives and injured 20 others.
While the weather has shown significant improvement, with the sun now shining brightly after a prolonged spell of heavy rains, flash floods, and landslides, officials have yet to decide on resuming the yatra.
"Yatra is still suspended," confirmed an official, attributing the decision to the authorities’ commitment to pilgrim safety.
The decision on resuming the pilgrimage will be made after a thorough assessment of all factors, the official noted.
This suspension marks the longest pause since the pandemic-related restrictions, as authorities prioritize the safety and restoration of the pilgrimage path and commercial facilities in Katra.
The landslide at Adhkuwari, located in the Trikuta hills of the Katra belt, was responsible for the casualties on August 26.
The yatra has remained suspended since that day, pending further notice.
Simultaneously, local train services initiated to assist in the transit of locals and stranded passengers between Jammu and Katra, the base camp for the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, remain halted.
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