JAMMU, Jul 20: The annual pilgrimages to the cave shrines of Shri Amarnath, Mata Vaishno Devi and Shri Shiv Khori remained suspended for the second consecutive day on Monday as heavy rainfall continued to batter Jammu and Kashmir, prompting authorities to prioritise pilgrim safety.
The administration directed that the Amarnath Yatra remain suspended until further orders in view of the Meteorological Department’s forecast of continued inclement weather. No vehicles carrying pilgrims have been allowed to proceed from Jammu, Udhampur or Ramban towards Srinagar.
Hundreds of pilgrims remained stranded at base camps and lodging centres in Jammu, Kathua, Samba, Udhampur, Ramban and Banihal, while security personnel were deployed along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway to prevent the movement of yatra vehicles.
The pilgrimage to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Reasi district also remained suspended for the second day. Police made announcements at the Katra base camp, informing pilgrims that no one would be permitted to proceed towards the Bhawan until weather conditions improve. Devotees already in Katra were advised to remain at their lodging facilities.
The Shri Shiv Khori Yatra in Reasi district was similarly kept on hold due to heavy rain forecasts and adverse weather in the Ransoo area. The Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board advised devotees to postpone their visit until further notice, citing safety concerns.
Officials said the administration is closely monitoring the weather and will decide on resuming the pilgrimages only after conditions improve and safety assessments are completed.
Rain has continued since early Sunday, with cloudbursts reported in forest areas of Kashmir. The Meteorological Department has forecast moderate to widespread rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir from July 19 to 24. (Agencies)
