Why is the Vaishno Devi Yatra Postponed Due to Rain?
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Synopsis
The anticipated resumption of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine Yatra on September 14 has been halted indefinitely owing to relentless rainfall in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. This decision prioritizes the safety of pilgrims after recent tragic events. Explore the details surrounding this development and its impact on millions of devotees.
Key Takeaways
- Yatra postponed indefinitely due to continuous rainfall.
- Safety of pilgrims is the top priority.
- Recent landslide tragedy on August 26 claimed 35 lives.
- SMVDSB announced the postponement on social media.
- Over 1.5 crore pilgrims visit the shrine annually.
Jammu, Sep 13 (NationPress) The Yatra to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, which was set to resume on September 14, has now been postponed indefinitely due to persistent rainfall in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir.
The pilgrimage to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine was initially halted on August 26 due to severe weather conditions.
All devotees had descended to the base camp in Katra, with many seeking refuge at a designated shelter along the Yatra route on that date.
A tragic landslide struck this shelter on August 26, resulting in the loss of 35 lives among the pilgrims. In response, a high-level committee was formed by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha to investigate the incident, while the Yatra remained suspended.
Officials from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), overseen by the Lieutenant Governor, had previously announced that the Yatra would begin again on September 14.
However, today, the SMVDSB announced on social media that the Yatra would not resume as planned due to ongoing rain, and it has been postponed until further notice.
This decision prioritizes the safety of the pilgrims.
In their message on social media, the board stated: "Jai Mata Di. The Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra, originally scheduled to commence on September 14 (Sunday), has been postponed indefinitely."
Recently, authorities instructed hotels and Dharamshalas to clear out their guests.
Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chaudhary criticized SMVDSB officials for their mismanagement of the Yatra.
Every year, over 1.5 crore pilgrims visit the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, located atop the Trikuta Hills in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, commonly referred to as the Shrine Board, is responsible for managing the Yatra and overseeing the shrine's administration.
Established in August 1986 under the provisions of The Jammu and Kashmir Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Act, 1988, the board's primary aim is to enhance the management and governance of the Holy Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji and its associated properties.
The Board consists of a Chairman and up to 10 members.
The Lt. Governor of the UT of Jammu and Kashmir serves as the ex-officio Chairman, and he appoints nine other members at the policymaking level. The board executes its responsibilities through a Chief Executive Officer, supported by government officers from J&K.
Point of View
It is paramount to recognize the significance of prioritizing safety in such situations. The decision to postpone the Yatra is commendable, especially following the unfortunate events of August 26. The Shrine Board must remain accountable while ensuring the well-being of the devotees. Our commitment is to provide timely updates as this situation evolves.
NationPress
13/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Vaishno Devi Yatra postponed?
The Yatra was postponed due to continuous rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district, prioritizing the safety of the pilgrims.
When was the Yatra originally scheduled to resume?
The Yatra was set to resume on September 14 before being postponed.
What tragic event occurred during the Yatra in August?
A landslide on August 26 resulted in the deaths of 35 pilgrims, prompting a suspension of the Yatra.
Who oversees the management of the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine?
The management is handled by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), which was established to ensure better governance of the shrine.
How many pilgrims visit the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine annually?
Over 1.5 crore pilgrims visit the shrine each year.
