Katra, September 12, 2025-In a much-awaited announcement, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has confirmed that the sacred pilgrimage to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine will resume on Sunday, September 14, 2025, following a nearly three-week suspension triggered by severe landslides and adverse weather conditions. The decision brings relief to millions of devotees who undertake this arduous 12-kilometer trek annually to seek blessings at the holy cave shrine in the Trikuta Hills of Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir.The yatra, one of India’s most popular religious journeys attracting over 10 million pilgrims each year, was abruptly halted on August 26 after a devastating landslide near the Inderprastha Bhojnalaya at Adhkuwari – roughly halfway along the route from the base camp at Katra. Heavy monsoon rains triggered the massive slide around 3 PM, claiming the lives of 34 people, mostly pilgrims, and injuring several others. Subsequent inclement weather and multiple landslides along the yatra track necessitated essential maintenance and safety assessments, extending the closure to 19 days – the longest interruption since the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, when the shrine remained closed from March 18 to August 16.”The temporary suspension was implemented solely in the interest of devotee safety amid inclement weather and track repairs,” a Shrine Board official stated. “We are now prepared to welcome pilgrims back, subject to favorable weather conditions.” The board has also constituted a high-level three-member committee, headed by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha – who also chairs the SMVDSB – to investigate the root causes of the August 26 tragedy and recommend preventive measures.
Enhanced Safety Measures for Returning Pilgrims
As the yatra gears up for resumption, the Shrine Board has emphasized stringent protocols to ensure pilgrim safety, especially with the upcoming Navratri festival in October expected to draw record crowds. Key guidelines include:
- Mandatory RFID Tracking: All devotees must wear Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-based cards for real-time monitoring and traceability. These can be obtained during registration at Katra or Banganga.
- Valid Identification: Pilgrims are urged to carry government-issued photo ID, such as Aadhaar or Voter ID, for seamless verification.
- Pathway Adherence: Strict adherence to designated routes is compulsory; deviations will not be permitted.
- Cooperation with Staff: Devotees should follow instructions from on-ground personnel and report any concerns immediately.
- Weather Monitoring: The resumption remains weather-dependent; updates will be posted on the official website www.maavaishnodevi.org.
For pre-yatra registration, helicopter services, accommodation bookings, and live darshan timings, pilgrims can access the Shrine Board’s portal or helpline (01991-232201). The board has also advised checking Jammu-Srinagar National Highway status, as ongoing landslides continue to disrupt connectivity at several points.
Gratitude and Resilience Amidst Adversity
In a heartfelt message, the SMVDSB expressed profound thanks to devotees for their “patience and understanding” during the closure. “The resumption of the Yatra marks a reaffirmation of our collective faith and resilience,” the statement read. “The Board remains committed to upholding the sanctity, safety, and dignity of this revered pilgrimage.”Local stakeholders, including pony operators, shopkeepers, and hoteliers in Katra – the gateway to the shrine – have faced significant hardships due to the suspension, with daily footfall dropping to near zero. The revival is seen as a vital economic boost ahead of the festive season.Devotees worldwide have shared their excitement on social media, with many posting prayers and virtual aartis in anticipation. As the Trikuta Hills prepare to echo with chants of “Jai Mata Di,” the Vaishno Devi Yatra stands as a testament to unwavering devotion in the face of nature’s fury.
