Is the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra Back on Track After Weather Challenges?
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Synopsis
The Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has resumed after facing weather-related challenges that temporarily halted the pilgrimage. With all facilities operational, pilgrims are returning to the shrine just in time for the Navratri festival, promising a vibrant atmosphere in the region.
Key Takeaways
- The Yatra has resumed operations after a temporary halt.
- All facilities for pilgrims are functional.
- Over 3,500 pilgrims visited the shrine on the resumption day.
- Authorities are ensuring safety and smooth arrangements.
- The Navratri festival is expected to draw a large crowd.
Jammu, Sep 18 (NationPress) The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has recommenced in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district as of Thursday, following a temporary halt that was imposed on Wednesday due to adverse weather conditions.
After a pause of 22 days, the Yatra was initially resumed on September 17, but had to be suspended again due to deteriorating weather in the region.
Officials from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) confirmed that all necessary facilities are operational, allowing pilgrims to ascend from the base camp to the shrine.
Previously, the Yatra was suspended on August 26 due to severe weather. On that same day, a landslide tragically struck a shelter area along the route to the shrine, resulting in the loss of 34 pilgrims who had sought refuge there.
According to SMVDSB officials, all services for the Yatris are now functional, and the helicopter service has also resumed operations.
This service had been briefly halted due to fog, but with improving weather conditions, it has restarted.
There was a sense of joy among Yatris and local vendors in Katra, the base camp town, as life began to return to normal after several days of disruption.
On this day, over 3,500 pilgrims visited the Vaishno Devi shrine, with a steady influx of devotees observed since the morning.
Authorities have made arrangements for smooth registration, security, accommodation, and other essential services for the Yatra.
The SMVDSB has urged pilgrims to adhere to guidelines and weather advisories to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage experience.
The Yatra commenced at 6 A.M. today after a temporary suspension due to adverse weather and necessary maintenance of the track leading to the shrine.
The Shrine Board anticipates a significant number of devotees in the upcoming days as the Navratri festival begins on September 22 and continues until October 1.
An official at the registration counter remarked, “The resumption of the Yatra is a testament to our shared faith and resilience. The Board is dedicated to maintaining the sanctity, safety, and dignity of this revered pilgrimage.”
Originally, the Shrine Board planned to resume the Yatra on September 14, but persistent rainfall led to an extension of the suspension until September 17.
Point of View
We recognize the profound importance of the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra for millions of devotees. The recent weather disruptions highlight the challenges faced by pilgrims, but the resilience shown by both the Shrine Board and the Yatris is commendable. Ensuring safety and a smooth pilgrimage experience is paramount, especially with the upcoming Navratri festivities. We stand with the community and celebrate their unwavering faith.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the temporary suspension of the Yatra?
The Yatra was temporarily suspended due to inclement weather, which included heavy rainfall and fog conditions.
When did the Yatra resume?
The Yatra resumed on September 18, after being initially restarted on September 17.
How many pilgrims attended the shrine recently?
Over 3,500 pilgrims visited the Vaishno Devi shrine on the day of resumption.
What precautions are taken for the Yatris?
Authorities have implemented arrangements for registration, security, accommodation, and other essential services, urging Yatris to follow guidelines and weather advisories.
What is the significance of the upcoming Navratri festival?
The Navratri festival, starting from September 22, holds great cultural and spiritual significance, attracting many devotees to the shrine.
