Katra, March 1, 2025 – Continuous rainfall over the past few days has caused significant damage to the Katra-Domail Highway, a key route for pilgrims heading to the Mata Vaishno Devi and Shivkhori Temples in Jammu and Kashmir.
Major cracks were spotted on the highway near Miyadi on Friday, February 28, prompting authorities to close the road temporarily and divert traffic to an alternate route via Panthal Road.
The decision to reroute traffic was announced late Friday evening
According to updates the Katra-Domail road has since been repaired and reopened for light and passenger vehicles as of Friday night, though heavy goods vehicles remain barred and must continue using the Panthal-Sool road diversion.
Authorities have urged pilgrims and travelers bound for the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra and the Shivkhori Temple in Reasi district to opt for the Panthal Road detour to ensure safety amid ongoing repairs and unpredictable weather.
The Katra-Domail Highway, a vital link connecting the base camp of Katra to other parts of the region, has faced similar disruptions in the past due to landslides and heavy rains, a recurring challenge during the monsoon and early spring seasons.
Local administration and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board are monitoring the situation closely, with repair crews working to stabilize the damaged sections. Pilgrims are advised to stay updated on road conditions before embarking on their journeys, as further rainfall could exacerbate the situation.