SRINAGAR/JAMMU, July 19: Authorities on Sunday suspended the Amarnath Yatra and the pilgrimages to the Mata Vaishno Devi and Shri Shiv Khori shrines as a precaution following the India Meteorological Department’s forecast of widespread rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir from July 19 to 23.
The Amarnath Yatra was suspended from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes, with officials stopping the onward movement of pilgrims from the Baltal and Nunwan/Chandanwari base camps in Kashmir as well as the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu.
“In view of the inclement weather forecast issued by the IMD, Shri Amarnathji Yatra shall remain temporarily suspended from all base camps, including the Pahalgam and Baltal routes, with effect from July 19, as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims,” an official said.
Authorities said the yatra would resume only after a comprehensive assessment of weather conditions and confirmation that the routes are safe.
The suspension came as rain lashed several parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, with cloudbursts reported in forest areas of Kashmir. Since the pilgrimage began on July 3, more than 3.76 lakh devotees have offered prayers at the holy cave shrine.
The Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage was also temporarily suspended in view of the adverse weather forecast.
Officials advised devotees to follow updates issued through official channels, saying the situation was being monitored continuously.
The Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board also suspended the pilgrimage to the cave shrine in Reasi district, urging pilgrims to postpone their visit until further notice due to the possibility of heavy rainfall.
The Jammu Divisional Commissioner said on X that the suspension was a precautionary measure in view of the IMD warning and prevailing weather conditions in Ransoo.
Officials said a decision on resuming all three pilgrimages would be taken after weather conditions improve and safety assessments are completed. (Agencies)
