Landslide Near Vaishno Devi Shrine Injures 6 Pilgrims in J&K’s Reasi
On Monday, July 21, a landslide struck the old track leading to the Vaishno Devi shrine in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, injuring six pilgrims. The incident occurred at around 8:50 AM near Gulshan Ka Langar, close to Banganga, a gathering point for pony riders and devotees starting their yatra on the old path.
The landslide was triggered by heavy rainfall that lashed the Katra region, the base camp for the pilgrimage. According to local officials, rescue teams were immediately deployed and successfully shifted the injured pilgrims to nearby hospitals.
Dr. Rashpaul Bansotra, BMO of Katra Hospital, confirmed that six individuals were brought to the hospital and their condition is reported to be stable. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, and rescue operations are still ongoing to remove debris and ensure the path is cleared.
Authorities have issued an advisory asking pilgrims to avoid the old route until further notice, citing safety concerns due to ongoing rainfall and the risk of further landslides.
The Vaishno Devi Shrine, situated on Trikuta Hills, witnesses thousands of devotees daily. During monsoon season, the region is prone to such natural disruptions, especially on older and less fortified tracks.
Pilgrims are advised to follow official updates and consider using the newer track for their journey, which remains operational and safer during such weather events.
