Katra Landslide: 18 Hours After Blockage Route Reopens but Helicopter Services Still Suspended.
After 18 hours of rain triggered landslide Vaishno Devi Himkoti route reopens so devotees walk on while Katra helicopter service stays shut for sixth day
Devotees Reach Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Despite Landslide and Rain
In Katra Jammu and Kashmir the holy pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine faced a major disruption when a landslide triggered by heavy rain blocked the vital Ardhkuwari Himkoti route. The route was finally restored after 18 hours of nonstop clearance work so devotees could move again but helicopter services from Katra stayed suspended for the sixth day.
Heavy Rain Triggers Landslide Route Covered in Debris
The problem started on Monday afternoon when strong rain caused several landslides on the battery car route between Ardhkuwari and Himkoti which is important for pilgrims going toward the shrine. Stones mud and debris blocked the way so the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board quickly stopped travel on this path to protect the safety of all pilgrims.
Route Reopens After Overnight Cleanup Operation
Shrine Board workers along with local officials and JCB machines worked hard through the night. In tough weather and steep terrain they managed to clear the blocked route by 8 AM on Tuesday. After the path was cleared the battery car service also started again so many pilgrims felt relieved.
Helicopter Flights Cancelled for Sixth Consecutive Day
Even though the walking route is now open helicopter flights from Katra to Sanjichhat have still not resumed. This is because thick clouds are covering the Trikuta Hills so flying is not safe. Many pilgrims especially older people or those with health issues are facing trouble due to this.
Pilgrims Brave Rain with Faith and Devotion
Even with all the problems devotees are not stopping. Many are going on foot or using horses pithhus or palkis to reach the Bhawan. On Tuesday morning it started raining again so the journey became harder but the devotees kept moving while shouting Jai Mata Di and walking with full faith.
Ropeway Service Between Bhawan and Bhairav Ghati Remains Operational
The ropeway cable car service between Bhawan and Bhairav Ghati is still working so many tired pilgrims are getting help through it and avoiding the long walk.
Security and Disaster Response Teams on High Alert
To keep everything safe disaster response teams Shrine Board staff CRPF and police are all active on the yatra path. They are watching the weather closely and ready to help if anything happens suddenly.
The weather keeps changing and the flights are still not flying but the faith of the pilgrims is not breaking. People from many places are still coming to see Mata Vaishno Devi and showing that true devotion never stops no matter what comes in the way.