After Amarnath, Vaishno Devi Yatra Suspended From July 19 Due To Bad Weather

Jammu: Due to the inclement weather forecast, authorities in Jammu and Kashmir said that Amarnath and Mata Vaishno Devi Yatras will be temporarily suspended from July 19.

What did the board say?

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has temporarily suspended the Vaishno Devi Yatra in view of the bad weather warning issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

According to the official information released by the Shrine Board, this decision has been taken as a precautionary measure keeping in mind the safety and well-being of the pilgrims.

Devotees are advised to remain patient and follow the information provided through the Shrine Board's official communications. Officials are constantly monitoring weather conditions and will resume the pilgrimage once conditions are safe for pilgrims. 

What did the board appeal?

The administration stated that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir between July 19 and 23. In view of this, pilgrims have been urged to refrain from embarking on the pilgrimage until further notice and to rely only on official information. Officials stated that the safety of pilgrims is the top priority. 

Confirming the suspension of the Vaishno Devi Yatra, an official in Jammu said, "In view of the bad weather warning issued by the IMD, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra will be suspended for some time as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of the pilgrims."

He said the decision was taken keeping in mind the safety of people following a warning of severe weather in the area. Pilgrims are advised to cooperate with the administration and refrain from undertaking the pilgrimage until further notice. The India Meteorological Department has forecast moderate to widespread rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir between July 19 and 23. The administration has urged pilgrims to stay updated with official media for the latest information regarding the resumption of the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage.

Is Amarnath Yatra also postponed?

Due to the India Meteorological Department's forecast of inclement weather, the Shri Amarnath Yatra has been temporarily suspended starting July 19. This decision was made to ensure the safety of pilgrims and considering the risk of landslides on both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes.