Jammu: As many as seven pilgrims on their way to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine were injured after a landslide, triggered by heavy rainfall, struck near the old track at Ban Ganga in Katra town of Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir.
According to police, a large boulder rolled down and struck near the “Langar” (community kitchen) area on the old track today morning. Among the injured, three pilgrims are said to be in critical condition.
A rescue operation was launched, and all the injured were immediately shifted to nearby medical facilities. The critically injured have been admitted to Narayana Hospital in Kakrayal, Katra.
Rescue efforts are continuing at the site, and authorities are monitoring the situation closely to prevent further mishaps.
Police team, along with Shrine Board staff and locals, are engaged in road clearance operations. Authorities said that the pilgrimage route has been diverted to “Tarakote Marg for devotees heading to the Bhawan.”
Around 18,000 to 20,000 pilgrims are daily visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi nestled in Trikuta Hills of Katra.
