Vaishno Devi landslide: 8 dead, 14 injured on Ardhkuwari route; several still feared trapped

Eight people have died and 14 others sustained injuries in a tragic landslide near Inderprastha Bhojnalaya at Ardhkuwari on the route to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. At the time of the incident, around 12 to 15 pilgrims were present at the site. Two bodies were initially recovered and taken to Katra hospital, while several critically injured individuals have also been shifted for medical treatment. Rescue operations are underway with full deployment of manpower and machinery. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with emergency response teams to manage the crisis effectively.

The landslide was triggered by heavy overnight rainfall, prompting the Shrine Board to temporarily halt the Vaishno Devi Yatra to ensure the safety of pilgrims. A red alert has been issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for several districts in Jammu and Kashmir, along with a flood warning in vulnerable areas. Rivers across the region are flowing above danger levels, heightening the risk of further landslides and flash floods. While reports of casualties and injuries have emerged, official confirmation from authorities is still awaited, and search and rescue efforts are ongoing.

Three relief columns of the Indian Army have been swiftly mobilised to assist in rescue and relief operations in and around Katra. One column is actively involved in saving lives in Ardhkuwari, another has reached the site of a landslide on the Katra–Thakrakot road, and a third column is operating south of Jaurian. The Army is working in close coordination with civil agencies to evacuate civilians, provide assistance to those in need, and ensure safety in the affected areas.

Amit Shah condoles Vaishno Devi landslide tragedy, assures full support

Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed deep sorrow over the tragic landslide near the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route in Jammu and Kashmir, triggered by heavy rainfall. Terming the incident "extremely unfortunate," Shah stated that he has spoken to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha regarding the situation. He assured that the local administration is actively involved in relief and rescue operations, and that NDRF teams are also reaching the site to assist in managing the crisis and helping the injured.

CM Abdullah condoles tragedy

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed that he spoke with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to update him on the severe damage and disruption caused by continuous heavy rainfall across Jammu province. He noted that efforts are underway to restore phone and data connectivity in the affected areas. Abdullah expressed regret over being unable to reach Jammu due to the closure of the airport but assured that he is monitoring the situation closely and staying in contact with teams on the ground. Offering condolences, he expressed sorrow over the loss of pilgrims’ lives on the Vaishno Devi route, praying for peace for the departed souls.

Pilgrims advised to follow official updates 

The administration has urged devotees not to believe in rumors and to strictly follow updates issued through official channels of the Shrine Board.

IMD issues rain alert 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a rain alert for several districts in the Jammu region, including Kathua, Samba, Doda, Jammu, Ramban, and Kishtwar. With rivers across the Union Territory swelling beyond danger levels, many areas are now under the threat of flooding.The water level of the Chenab River is rising, raising concerns in some areas. SDRF teams have been deployed at such locations. The administration has advised residents, especially those living near the riverbanks, to remain alert and avoid going out unnecessarily.

Cloudbursts have occurred at two locations, leading to the washing away of NH 244. Doda DC Harvinder Singh said three persons have lost their lives due to flash floods—two in Gandhoh and one in the Thathri subdivision. As many as 15 residential houses and several cow sheds have been damaged, and a private health centre has also suffered significant damage. Three footbridges have also been washed away.

(Inputs from Rahi Kapoor)

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