Jammu, August 26 – A landslide struck the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra track in Katra on Monday, leaving at least 30 people dead and 23 others injured, officials confirmed. The incident occurred amid continuous heavy rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir, which has triggered multiple landslides across the region.

The landslide hit a crowded section of the pilgrimage route, burying devotees and workers under debris. Rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and the Army, have been deployed. Search and relief efforts are ongoing, though officials said persistent rain and unstable terrain are making the operation difficult.

The injured have been shifted to nearby hospitals, with some reported to be in critical condition. Authorities are also working to identify the deceased and inform their families.

Visuals from the site showed large sections of mud and rocks covering the track, with pilgrims being moved to safer areas. Ambulances and relief workers have been stationed close to the shrine to provide immediate assistance.

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has appealed to devotees to exercise caution and follow official advisories. Authorities are also assessing whether to temporarily halt the pilgrimage until conditions stabilize.

Heavy rain over the past few days has caused widespread flooding and landslides in several districts of Jammu and Kashmir, raising safety concerns for both residents and pilgrims. Officials said the situation is being closely monitored, and further updates will be provided.