Vaishno Devi Landslide 2025: Over 30 Dead, Rescue Operations Intensify Amid Jammu Rains

Katra, Jammu — August 27, (OT Webdesk): A catastrophic landslide struck the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route in Katra on Wednesday, killing at least 30 devotees and injuring 23 others.

The incident occurred amid intense rainfall that destabilised the hillside, sending debris crashing down on thousands of pilgrims en route to the revered shrine.

Rescue operations are in full swing, with coordinated efforts from the District Administration, J&K Police, NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, and local volunteers. Authorities are racing against time to locate survivors and provide emergency aid.

The broader Jammu region is grappling with severe weather, including thunderstorms, flash floods, and hailstorms.

Infrastructure damage is widespread—bridges have collapsed, power lines are down, and mobile towers have been crippled, leading to communication blackouts in several areas.

More than 3,500 residents have been evacuated from high-risk zones and relocated to temporary shelters equipped with food, clean water, and medical support.

Meteorologists warn that the storm system remains active, with cloud tops reaching 12 km and continued rainfall expected in hill regions.

The tragedy has cast a pall over the annual pilgrimage and reignited calls for robust disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience in vulnerable religious corridors.