JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday visited and extended support to those injured in the Vaishno Devi landslide, describing it as a result of a cloudburst. He clarified that the pilgrimage had already been suspended when the incident occurred.
Sinha also spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, briefing them on the post-flood situation in the region.
The death toll from the landslide at Adhkuwari in the Trikuta Hills, Katra, has risen to 32, as rescuers continue to recover bodies from the debris. At least 20 others sustained injuries and are receiving treatment in various hospitals, officials said.
Addressing reporters, Sinha said, “This has been a very unfortunate incident. Around noon yesterday, a cloudburst struck when the yatra was already suspended. Several people were swept away, leading to the loss of many precious lives and injuries to several others.”
Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah questioned why officials did not prevent pilgrims from proceeding despite warnings of severe weather.
Sinha, who visited the injured at Narayana Hospital in Katra, said, “Thirteen of the injured are admitted here; they are stable and receiving the best possible care.”
He added that many of those who died have been identified, and the administration, along with the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, is arranging to return the bodies to their families.
“No compensation can replace a lost life, but in line with the shrine board’s policy, an ex gratia payment of Rs 5 lakh will be given to each deceased’s family,” Sinha said.
Highlighting the administration’s efforts, he noted, “The entire administration is engaged in protecting lives and property. Relief and rescue operations are ongoing. In our evening meeting, we will discuss measures to further strengthen these efforts.”
In a post on X, the L-G stated, “At SMVD Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Katra, I met devotees injured in the landslide and enquired about their health. I urged doctors to ensure the best possible treatment. My gratitude to emergency responders, SMVDSB staff, and citizens whose exemplary actions saved many lives.”
He added that relief and rescue work is continuing across various districts and that he has directed officials to maintain maximum readiness and staff presence to respond to emergencies.
