Various regions across India are experiencing intense rainfall, and one of them is Jammu & Kashmir. Heavy rainfall has forced tempoaray suspension of yatra to the holy shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi. Authorities have closed the yatra to ensure the safety of devotees and will open it once the weather conditions are under control. Scroll down to know more.
Vaishno Devi Yatra Temporarily Suspended
Located on the Trikuta hills in Reasi district, Shri Vaishno Devi is one of the most-visited pilgrimage destinations for Hindu devotees. To reach the cave shrine, devotees walk 13km; many of them also take battery car and helicopter services. However, earlier this week, these services, including helicopter rides, were closed because of poor weather. While the walking trek was open earlier, it has also been closed now. Due to the current weather conditions, the authorities have put a hold on the Shri Vaishno Devi yatra. Recently, a landslide also hit the track of the yatra, killing 5 people, and injuring 14.
As the pilgrimage place is situated on hills, this is not the first time it has been affected by rain this season. In June, a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall blocked the new track towards the cave shrine. Now, once again, rainfall has caused major concern among devotees as the yatra has been suspended for the time being.
Red Alert Issued In J&K
The intense rainfall has not only affected the Vaishno Devi yatra but also road connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. The Jammu-Srinagar national highway has been temporarily closed for the time being. Several stones falling from hills on the road were reported from Chanderkote, Kela Morh, and Battery Cheshma. According to Hindustan Times, the IMD also issued a red alert for intense rainfall for Jammu and Kashmir.
Moreover, several rivers and streams across the union territory have dangerously swelled. In Kathua, the water levels in the Ujh River, Maggar Khad, Taranah River, Sahar Khad, and Ravi River have increased. In Udhampur district, the Tawi river has already gone beyond 20 feet, while in Jammu, it is flowing above the alert level. The Chenab River is almost at the warning level.
The authorities have instructed officials to be on high alert, whereas citizens are advised to stay indoors and avoid travelling if not necessary.
We hope the situation in Jammu & Kashmir gets under control soon.
Also Read: Long Weekend Weather Update: From Goa To Delhi, IMD Issues Widespread Alert For Significant Rainfall
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons