The administrative decision to pause the pilgrimage follows reports of significantly reduced visibility and a heightened risk of landslides along the steep mountain tracks. Local officials noted that the mixture of rain and snow has made the limestone paths exceptionally slippery, posing a physical danger to those navigating the incline. Despite the logistical challenges, the atmosphere remained one of spiritual reverence; the Shrine Board released official imagery of the Bhawan shrine draped in white, describing the natural spectacle as a "breathtaking blessing" for the region.
Safety remains the paramount concern for the authorities as they monitor the meteorological shift. The Shrine Board confirmed that no injuries have been reported thus far, and emergency response teams are on high alert to assist those currently on the tracks. For now, the gates at Katra remain regulated, with the resumption of the trek contingent upon a thorough assessment of the weather and the clearance of any debris caused by the rainfall. This seasonal disruption highlights the delicate balance between the devotion of millions who visit the site annually and the volatile environmental conditions of the Jammu region, ensuring that the sanctity of the pilgrimage is matched by a rigorous commitment to public safety.
About The Author
Comment List