Katra – The holy town of Katra, home to the revered shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, is witnessing a severe weather situation as continuous torrential rains have caused rivers and streams in the region to swell dangerously. The relentless downpour over the past 24 hours has led to heavy water flow on roads and triggered partial flooding in several areas of the city.

One of the major areas affected is the Vaishnavi Marg, the primary route used by devotees visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine. Pilgrims are now forced to walk through waterlogged and slippery pathways, significantly hampering the ease and safety of the sacred journey. Some sections of the route are reportedly submerged, increasing the risk of slips and minor accidents.

Local authorities and disaster response teams (SDRF) have been deployed and are maintaining close watch over the situation. In view of the threat of landslides and rising water levels, the administration has placed emergency response units on high alert. Travel on certain vulnerable stretches has been temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure.

A senior official from Katra Municipal Council stated:

“The rainfall is continuous, and we are keeping all departments on alert. The safety of devotees is our utmost priority. If necessary, we will issue travel advisories or alter the pilgrimage route.”

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning predicting more heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours in the region. With rivers and hilly terrains in and around Katra becoming increasingly dangerous, devotees and residents have been urged to follow official safety advisories and avoid unnecessary travel.