Tragedy Hits Jammu: Heavy Rains Kill 41, Vaishno Devi Yatra Suspended
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Summary: A devastating cloudburst near the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage path killed at least 41 people, and the yatra has been suspended due to record rainfall and landslides.
A fierce cloudburst near Adhkunwari, while people were on their way to the Vaishno Devi shrine, caused a deadly landslide that claimed the lives of at least 41 people—most of them pilgrims. The same weather system also caused flash floods in Doda district, raising alarms across Jammu and Kashmir.
The calamity unfolded after the region was battered by the heaviest rainfall recorded in a single day. In Reasi district, near the shrine, 34 lives were lost in the landslide, while four people perished earlier in flash floods triggered by the downpour in distant Doda.
Authorities have halted the Vaishno Devi yatra indefinitely. The Sri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board cited safety concerns and unstable weather for the decision. Many have criticised the incident, notably J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, questioning why the yatra wasn't suspended earlier, given the weather warnings.
Impact and Rescue Efforts
Disrupted Services and Infrastructure: Communication networks, power supplies, and roads have taken a major hit. The Tawi, Chenab, and other rivers are swelling restlessly, prompting fresh flood warnings.
Ongoing Relief Work: The NDRF, SDRF, and local authorities have deployed multiple teams for rescue, while the Army has provided urgent aid.
Increased Toll and Risks: This follows a recent flash flood in Kishtwar that claimed the lives of more than 60 individuals earlier this month. This highlights how vulnerable the region is to escalating climate disasters.
