What Happened
Continuous heavy rain in Jammu region led to a major landslide on the Vaishno Devi yatra route near Adhkuwari. Through the day, different official updates put the death toll between 30 and 38, with several injured. The pilgrimage has been temporarily suspended while the track is cleared and safety checks are carried out. Authorities also reported flash floods in nearby districts, which damaged roads, bridges and local infrastructure.
Rain & Flood Situation
The rainfall over a 24-hour period was among the highest recorded in decades for Jammu, resulting in overflowing rivers and waterlogging in many low-lying areas. With connectivity hit and intermittent power and mobile network issues, local administration advised people to avoid unnecessary travel and follow official advisories. Train services and road traffic were disrupted at several points but restoration work is underway.
Rescue & Relief Operations
Teams from the district administration, SDRF, NDRF, the Army and other agencies are engaged in rescue, medical assistance, and clearing operations. Priority tasks include searching the affected stretch, moving injured persons to hospitals, restoring electricity and water lines, and reopening key road links. Devotees already in Katra and along the track are being assisted with food, shelter and transport.
Compensation Announced by Government
The administration has announced financial assistance for affected families. As per official briefings:
- ₹9 lakh compensation to the next of kin of each deceased pilgrim, structured as ₹5 lakh under the Shrine Board policy and ₹4 lakh from disaster relief funds.
- Separate ex-gratia of ₹6 lakh per deceased has also been announced from state relief components, along with ₹1 lakh for the severely injured and ₹50,000 for those with minor injuries.
- Additional funds have been placed with district authorities to enable quick relief and restoration work.
Families are being guided on documentation to claim benefits. Hospitals near Katra have set up help desks to coordinate with officials for medical and insurance paperwork.
Status of the Yatra
The yatra remains on hold until the track is stabilized and weather conditions improve. Devotees are advised to check the latest advisory from the administration before planning travel. Those with bookings are being assisted with rescheduling support at Katra help centres.
What Pilgrims and Residents Should Do
- Follow local advisories on travel restrictions and weather alerts.
- Avoid waterlogged and landslide-prone stretches, especially in hilly sections.
- Keep emergency numbers handy and stay connected to official announcements.
- If you are affected, preserve medical bills and identity documents for relief claims.
Disclaimer
This article summarizes official updates available at the time of writing. Numbers may change as rescue and verification continue. Readers should rely on government advisories for on-ground decisions.
FAQ
Is the Vaishno Devi yatra open?
No. The pilgrimage is temporarily suspended until the route is cleared and declared safe.
How many deaths have been reported?
Different updates during the day placed the toll between 30 and 38, with several injured. The final figure will be confirmed after verification.
What compensation is available for victims’ families?
Announcements include ₹9 lakh (₹5 lakh Shrine Board + ₹4 lakh disaster relief). Separately, ₹6 lakh ex-gratia has been announced, along with support for the injured.
Why did flooding worsen?
Very high 24-hour rainfall pushed rivers above danger levels and triggered landslides in hilly terrain.
Where can people get help?
District control rooms, hospital help desks in Katra, and local administration counters are coordinating rescue, accommodation, and claims support.
