Landslide in Vaishno Devi Track in Jammu and Kashmir’s Katra Claims Two Lives
Landslide in Vaishno Devi Track in Jammu and Kashmir's Katra Claims Two Lives
Jammu and Kashmir, September 2, 2024 — A devastating landslide struck the Mata Vaishno Devi track in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, on Monday, resulting in the tragic loss of two lives and leaving one person injured.
The incident occurred on the popular pilgrimage route to the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, a sacred site for millions of devotees. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board confirmed the event, stating that their disaster management team quickly arrived at the scene to conduct rescue operations.
The landslide, accompanied by “shooting stones,” disrupted the area, raising concerns about the safety of pilgrims. The shrine board is working closely with local authorities to ensure that the injured receive prompt medical attention.
This tragic event occurred despite a forecast of dry weather for Jammu and Kashmir until September 12 by the weather department. However, the region is still expected to experience brief, isolated rainfall in the coming days.
In a related event earlier today, heavy rains triggered landslides in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, blocking the Badrinath National Highway at multiple points. The highway was obstructed at Pagalnala, Patalganga, and Nandaprayag, with efforts to clear the debris currently underway. Seven shops in the Simli market were also damaged due to the landslide.
Authorities are urging residents and pilgrims in both regions to remain vigilant as rescue operations continue.
