Reasi: Registration for the Vaishno Devi Yatra entered its second consecutive day on Thursday, following the pilgrimage’s resumption on Wednesday after a 22-day suspension caused by heavy rains and landslides. Improving weather conditions in the region have aided the process.
On the reopening day, more than 3,500 devotees offered prayers at the Vaishno Devi shrine. A steady stream of pilgrims has continued since Thursday morning, with authorities ensuring smooth arrangements for registration, security, accommodation, and other facilities.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, in coordination with the local administration, has urged devotees to follow guidelines and heed weather advisories for a safe and hassle-free pilgrimage.
Pilgrims expressed their relief and joy over the resumption. Priyanka Deka, who travelled with six family members from Assam, said, “We had been planning this trip for a long time. When we learned the shrine was closed due to landslides, we were disappointed but did not lose faith. We kept our tickets and finally made it here. We were warmly welcomed at Jammu Airport.”
Similarly, Kiran Donde from Pune shared her excitement: “The yatra is open today. We had come yesterday, but it was closed at 5:30 pm. Now, we are heading to the temple, and I feel very happy.”
The pilgrimage, originally scheduled to resume on September 14, remained suspended for 20 days due to incessant rainfall and frequent landslides. Authorities cited safety concerns as rain-triggered slides blocked tracks leading to the shrine and disrupted the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, complicating connectivity.
The prolonged suspension not only disheartened devotees but also hit local businesses reliant on the yatra. The closure followed a devastating landslide on August 26, which killed 34 people and injured several others near Adhkuwari, halfway along the 12-kilometre trek from Katra to the shrine.
