Landslide Hits Vaishno Devi Track After Heavy Rainfall, Yatra Continues; Helicopter Service Suspended

Jammu, July 9: A landslide triggered by heavy rainfall struck the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage track on Trikuta Hills on Wednesday, leading to the temporary suspension of battery car services, while the pilgrimage continued through the alternate route. The landslide occurred near Himkoti on the new track to the shrine following intense rains in the region. Officials said the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board immediately deployed men and machinery to clear the debris and restore the route. Despite the disruption, hundreds of pilgrims continued their journey to the holy shrine, with officials stating that the yatra remained unaffected. The helicopter service between Katra base camp and the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine was also suspended due to adverse weather conditions and continuous rainfall. Meanwhile, heavy rains lashed Jammu and adjoining areas, causing waterlogging in several low-lying localities. Floodwater from drains entered houses and commercial establishments in areas including Talab Tilloo, Bohri, Bhagwati Nagar, Lower Muthi, Paloura, Nanak Nagar, Shastri Nagar, Preet Nagar, Model Town and Gangyal. TravelGuides & Travelogues A boundary wall collapse in the Industrial Area Gangyal also caused damage to vehicles, while several roads witnessed waterlogging, affecting traffic movement. The Meteorological Department has forecast more spells of rain and thunderstorms in parts of Jammu and Kashmir over the coming days, with warnings of possible flash floods, landslides and mudslides in vulnerable areas.