Torrential rains devastate Jammu, 10 killed as Vaishno Devi yatra suspended

Relentless torrential rains have unleashed widespread devastation across the Jammu region, killing at least 10 people, including seven Vaishno Devi pilgrims, and forcing the suspension of the sacred yatra to the hilltop shrine. The continuous downpour triggered landslides, flash floods, and overflowing rivers, leaving behind collapsed bridges, uprooted electricity poles, and severe disruptions to daily life.

The Har ki Pauri Temple in Jammu was partially submerged on Monday, as all rivers in the region flowed well above the danger mark. Raging waters swept away boulders and trees, while slopes gave way across hill districts. The Jammu-Srinagar, Jammu-Pathankot, and Kishtwar-Doda highways were closed due to damage, and dozens of rural roads were rendered impassable. Train services to and from Jammu, Udhampur, and Katra were cancelled, while mobile and internet connectivity suffered major outages after optical fibres were damaged.

Chief minister Omar Abdullah briefed Union home minister Amit Shah on the crisis and convened an emergency meeting with officials, directing administrators to remain on high alert and ensure essentials like food, water, and medicines reach affected families. Schools in the Jammu division were ordered shut until August 27, while board examinations for Classes 10 and 11 were suspended.

The worst tragedy struck the Vaishno Devi route, where a massive landslide at Adhkwari buried a protection shed and claimed at least six lives. Fourteen others were injured, and several pilgrims remain trapped under debris as rescue teams race against time. The shrine board immediately suspended the yatra as a precautionary measure. Survivors recounted scenes of panic, with stones and mudslides crashing down suddenly. Many injured were shifted to Narayana Hospital in Katra.

Elsewhere, rain-battered Doda district reported four deaths, including three women, after houses collapsed or were swept away in gushing waters. Over 18 houses were destroyed. A portion of the Fourth Tawi Bridge in Jammu also collapsed, trapping vehicles, while flooding was reported in Kathua, Reasi, Rajouri, Ramban, and Poonch. Major rivers including Chenab, Tawi, Ujh, and Ravi crossed danger levels, inundating low-lying areas.

The army has deployed three relief columns to assist in rescue efforts in Katra and adjoining districts. Authorities have issued advisories urging people to stay away from rivers and landslide-prone zones, warning that the situation may worsen if rains continue.

Experts noted that while floods and landslides are common during the monsoon season, poorly planned development and the growing impact of climate change have increased both the frequency and the severity of such disasters.