Jammu & Kashmir Rain Havoc: 11 Dead as Landslide Hits Vaishno Devi Route

Heavy monsoon showers unleashed chaos across Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, leading to widespread flooding, landslides, and tragic loss of lives. One of the worst-hit spots was the sacred Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route in Reasi district, where a sudden landslide claimed multiple lives and forced the suspension of the yatra.

Death Toll Rises to 11

So far, at least 11 people have been reported dead in separate rain-related incidents across the Union Territory. Among them, seven lost their lives in a landslide near Adhkuwari, a crucial midway point along the 12-kilometer trek to the Vaishno Devi shrine. Others perished in flash floods and accidents triggered by the relentless downpour in different districts.

Tragedy at the Vaishno Devi Path

The landslide struck suddenly around the afternoon, raining boulders and debris onto the busy pilgrimage path. Many devotees were caught off guard, leading to multiple casualties and injuries.

Rescue operations were launched immediately with assistance from the Army, NDRF, CRPF, and local police. Injured devotees were shifted to nearby hospitals while the Shrine Board quickly announced a temporary halt to the yatra. Authorities also appealed to pilgrims to reschedule their visit until conditions stabilize.

Wider Impact of Rains Across J&K

The Vaishno Devi route was not the only area hit. Heavy rains triggered flash floods in rivers like Tawi and Chenab, pushing water levels above the danger mark. Several roads and bridges were washed away, disrupting traffic and cutting off connectivity to remote regions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has already issued a red alert for parts of Jammu and Kashmir, warning of more rain in the coming days. In response, emergency helplines have been activated across districts to assist stranded residents and travelers.

In addition to landslides, the downpour has led to suspension of train services, damaged houses, and hampered mobile connectivity, worsening the situation for locals.

Government and Rescue Response

Security forces and disaster management teams remain on high alert. Evacuations are underway in flood-prone areas, with the Army’s specialized units helping locals move to safer grounds. Night travel restrictions have also been enforced in vulnerable stretches to minimize risks of further accidents.

Union and state-level authorities are closely monitoring the crisis. The Lieutenant Governor’s office has directed district administrations to step up relief operations, while control rooms are working round-the-clock to provide updates and respond to distress calls.

A State in Mourning

The sudden landslide on the Vaishno Devi route has left the nation in shock, as the sacred pilgrimage attracts millions each year. The deaths of seven devotees on their spiritual journey highlight the unpredictable nature of monsoon disasters in the Himalayan region.

As rescue and relief efforts continue, authorities have urged people to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and keep track of weather alerts. For now, the focus remains on preventing further loss of life and restoring normalcy in the rain-ravaged Union Territory.