The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra resumed on Thursday in Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir, after being temporarily suspended on Wednesday due to adverse weather conditions.
The pilgrimage had restarted on 17 September following a 22-day break, but forced to halt again as the weather deteriorated.
Officials of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) confirmed that all facilities were fully operational, allowing pilgrims to proceed from the base camp to the shrine.
Earlier, the Yatra remained suspended on 26 August due to inclement weather.
On the same day, a landslide struck a shelter along the route, claiming the lives of 34 pilgrims who had sought refuge there.
SMVDSB officials confirmed that all pilgrim services, including the helicopter service, are now fully functional after a brief suspension due to fog. Officials resumed the service once weather conditions improved.
The resumption of the Yatra brought relief and jubilation among pilgrims and traders in Katra base camp, where life returned to normal after several days of disruption.
On Thursday, more than 3,500 pilgrims paid obeisance at the Vaishno Devi shrine, with a steady flow of devotees observed throughout the morning.
Authorities have ensured smooth arrangements for registration, security, accommodation and other essential facilities.
SMVDSB officials appealed to pilgrims to adhere to guidelines and weather advisories to ensure a safe and hassle-free journey.
The Yatra commenced at 06:00 AM following a temporary suspension for weather-related and essential track maintenance.
The Shrine Board anticipates a surge in devotees in the coming days with the onset of the Navratri festival, which runs from 22 September to 1 October.
A Shrine Board official at the registration counter, where pilgrims obtain RFID cards, stated, “The resumption of the yatra marks a reaffirmation of our collective faith and resilience. The Board remains committed to upholding the sanctity, safety and dignity of this pilgrimage.”
The Board had initially planned to resume the Yatra on 14 September, but continuous rainfall necessitated an extension of the suspension until 17 September.
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