PM Modi, President Murmu Express Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives, calling the tragedy “saddening.” In a message on X, he said, “My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover at the earliest.” He further assured that the administration was assisting the affected devotees and prayed for everyone’s safety.
President Droupadi Murmu also mourned the loss of lives, describing the incident as “extremely distressing.” She offered her condolences to the bereaved families and wished for the success of ongoing relief and rescue operations.
Authorities confirmed that massive boulders and mudslides blocked the trekking path, stranding dozens of pilgrims. The landslide struck near the Inderprastha Bhojnalaya, roughly halfway along the 12-km pilgrimage route from Katra to the shrine.
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local police teams have been deployed. Continuous rainfall, however, has hampered rescue efforts. Officials fear more people could still be trapped under the debris.
“The immediate priority is restoration of essential services like electricity, water supply, and mobile networks in the affected region,” said Union Minister Jitendra Singh, who has been monitoring the situation. He also confirmed that while the River Tawi’s water levels have started receding, the River Chenab remains close to the danger mark.
Pilgrimage Suspended Amid Heavy Rains
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has suspended the yatra temporarily due to safety concerns. Continuous rainfall across Jammu has caused multiple landslides, road blockages, and disruptions in communication networks. Authorities have urged devotees to postpone travel plans until conditions improve.
The annual Vaishno Devi pilgrimage attracts millions of devotees each year. The sudden landslide has not only shocked pilgrims but also raised concerns about safety measures and disaster preparedness along the route.
Nation Stands in Solidarity
Messages of support and condolences have poured in from across India. Political leaders, civil society groups, and ordinary citizens have expressed solidarity with the victims’ families. Relief camps have been set up in the region to provide shelter, food, and medical aid to stranded devotees.
As the rescue operations continue, the administration remains on high alert to prevent further tragedies in the rain-battered Jammu region. Officials have urged caution and assured that all necessary assistance will be provided to affected families.