Katra: The Vaishno Devi Yatra remained suspended for the seventh consecutive day on Monday due to inclement weather and safety concerns along the route. The base camp at Katra appeared deserted, with only a few pilgrims waiting for the pilgrimage to resume.
A slight improvement in weather was recorded on Monday morning, raising hopes of an early restoration. However, officials said movement will be permitted only after clearance from the concerned agencies.
Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Jammu today. He will conduct an aerial survey of flood-hit areas before holding a review meeting at Raj Bhawan.
The yatra was first halted on August 27 following heavy rainfall and a landslide. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has since ordered the formation of a three-member high-level committee to probe the incident. Headed by Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department, the panel also includes the Divisional Commissioner and the Inspector General of Police, Jammu. The committee has been directed to submit its findings within two weeks, examining the causes of the landslide, assessing the rescue and relief response, and recommending measures to prevent future occurrences.
On Friday, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) expressed grief over the loss of pilgrims’ lives in the August 26 natural disaster. It also rejected media reports alleging negligence in adhering to weather advisories, calling such claims “false and baseless.”
