What Happened in the Landslide at Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine?
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Synopsis
A tragic landslide at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine track claims a life and injures nine others. This incident has raised concerns about the safety of pilgrims. Learn more about the response and ongoing rescue efforts.
Key Takeaways
- One person deceased and nine injured due to landslide.
- Immediate medical care provided to the injured.
- Heavy rainfall triggered the landslide.
- Rescue operations are in progress.
- Authorities recommend avoiding the old track.
Jammu, July 21 (NationPress) Tragedy struck on Monday as one individual lost their life and nine others sustained injuries due to a landslide on the historic route leading to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district.
Lt Governor Manoj Sinha expressed his sorrow on X, stating, “I am profoundly saddened by the devastating landslide incident at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine that resulted in the unfortunate death of a devotee. I have instructed the Shrine Board to ensure the injured pilgrims receive the best possible medical attention. I am closely monitoring the situation.”
Sachin Kumar Vaishya, the officiating Chief Executive Officer of the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, reported that three individuals suffered critical injuries, while seven others experienced minor injuries. All injured parties were promptly transported to a hospital.
According to officials, the landslide occurred on the old path to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine this morning, impacting at least ten pilgrims. All injured were swiftly moved to the hospital, where one succumbed to their injuries. The remaining injured are currently receiving medical treatment.
The landslide was caused by intense rainfall in Katra town around 8:50 a.m. near Gulshan Ka Langar, which is adjacent to Banganga, the starting point of the yatra popular among pony riders.
“A rescue operation was immediately initiated by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local police,” officials confirmed.
The block medical officer verified the occurrence, adding that the condition of the nine injured pilgrims remains stable.
Rescue efforts are ongoing to clear the debris and ensure the safety of additional pilgrims in the area.
The Army has also joined the rescue efforts. The Indian Army detailed on social media platform X that immediate aid was rendered to those affected.
“In response to a landslide in the general vicinity of #Katra, troops from #WhiteKnightCorps were quickly deployed to assist in relief and rescue operations alongside civil authorities. Immediate aid was provided to impacted locals, demonstrating the Indian Army's unwavering commitment to the community. Rescue and support operations are currently in progress. We serve, We Protect!” shared White Knight Corps in their X post.
Authorities recommend that pilgrims exercise caution and refrain from using the old track until further notice.
Annually, over one crore pilgrims from across the nation and abroad visit the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, located on the Trikuta hills in Reasi district.
The Lt Governor oversees the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine board, which manages the shrine's affairs. Every year, substantial funds are allocated for enhancing facilities for pilgrims.
Point of View
It's crucial to approach this incident with empathy. The landslide highlights the risks that pilgrims face, especially during adverse weather conditions. Authorities must prioritize safety measures and improve infrastructure to prevent such tragedies in the future.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the landslide at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine?
The landslide was triggered by heavy rainfall in the Katra area.
How many people were affected by the landslide?
One person was killed and nine others were injured as a result of the landslide.
What actions are being taken for the injured?
The Shrine Board has directed to provide the best possible medical care to the injured pilgrims.
Is the rescue operation still ongoing?
Yes, rescue operations are currently underway to clear debris and ensure the safety of other pilgrims.
What should pilgrims do after the landslide?
Authorities have advised pilgrims to exercise caution and avoid the old track until further notice.
