JAMMU: The new track to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi cave shrine has been closed due to landslides while chopper service remained suspended for the second consecutive day due to inclement weather conditions in Reasi district.
”In view of continuous rains in the hilly terrain, landslide triggered near Hemkoti on the new track (Battery car track) to Mata Vaishno Devi Cave Shrine,” Shrine Board official here said.
He said that that track was shut for the pilgrims at around 1900 hrs, adding that no injury has been reported. ”If the weather improves by tomorrow, the track will be thrown open for pilgrimage after clearance,” he added.
He further said that the chopper service from Katra to Sanjhi Chhat also remained suspended for the second consecutive day due to inclement weather and fog in the hills.
An official said that around 10,000 to 12,000 pilgrims are daily visiting Katra town to pay obeisance at the Cave Shrine. ”Yatras from old traditional route is in progress,” he asserted.
The natural cave was also thrown open for the devotees on January 14 (Makarsakranti) due to decline in rush. Upper reaches of Trikuta Hills also received fresh spell of snowfall, they added. (AGENCIES)
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