According to the reports on Wednesday (27 August), a massive landslide triggered by heavy rains near the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, claimed the lives of at least 30 people. The incident occurred amid continuous rainfall, leaving several pilgrims injured and stranded along the Yatra route. News agency ANI reported the confirmation from Reasi SSP Paramvir Singh regarding the fatalities.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah called the incident “extremely tragic” and assured full support from the Centre. He said he had spoken with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to coordinate relief efforts. Shah also confirmed that National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams had been rushed to the site to assist with rescue and relief operations.
Troopers from the 6th Battalion of the CRPF also responded swiftly, evacuating the injured to the Community Health Centre in Katra. They provided medical and logistical support to stranded pilgrims while continuing search and rescue efforts. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and directed officials to provide immediate assistance to those affected.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported widespread thunderstorm activity across the region, as seen in Doppler Weather Radar imagery from Jammu early Wednesday morning. Authorities have urged residents, particularly in hilly and low-lying areas, to stay indoors and follow official advisories to ensure safety amid the continuing extreme weather conditions.
References
Tragedy strikes Vaishno Devi shrine as landslide claims lives amid relentless rainfall
Heavy Rain Triggers Landslide on Vaishno Devi Route, 30 Killed
