Amarnath Yatra Suspended Amid Intense Rain and Landslides

In a shocking turn of events, the Amarnath Yatra, one of India’s most sacred Hindu pilgrimages, has been suspended temporarily after 36 continuous hours of intense rainfall triggered landslides and flash floods along the pilgrimage routes. This abrupt suspension comes as a response to rapidly deteriorating weather and dangerous terrain conditions, putting thousands of lives at risk.

The incident has already claimed the life of a 55-year-old woman pilgrim from Rajasthan and left several others injured. Heart-wrenching visuals circulating online show pilgrims being swept away by fast-moving mud and water currents in the mountainous terrain.

What Led to the Suspension?

The Kashmir Valley experienced unrelenting torrential rain from July 15 to July 17, severely affecting both Baltal and Pahalgam routes, the two main access points for the cave shrine.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the region received record-level precipitation, causing:

• Landslides near Railpathri (Baltal route)
• Flooding of footpaths and makeshift tents
• Washed away safety railings and bridges
• Falling rocks and mudslides at multiple locations

Casualties and Rescue Operations

• One woman pilgrim, identified as Sona Bai, was killed after being hit by a falling rock near Railpathri.
• At least three to five others were injured due to debris and landslides.
• Shocking videos showed pilgrims struggling against the force of muddy water, some clinging to rocks and others being swept away.

Rescue operations began swiftly:

• Indian Army, NDRF, and SDRF personnel launched immediate missions.
• Choppers, sniffer dogs, and thermal cameras were deployed to locate those stranded.
• Heavy machinery from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) was brought in to clear debris and stabilize paths.

Yatra Suspension Details

Amarnath Shrine Board and J&K Administration ordered the suspension of:

• All upward pilgrim movement from Jammu, Baltal, and Pahalgam
• Evacuation of pilgrims from vulnerable camps, including Panjtami, Sheshnag, and Domail
• Tents and food langars were shifted to higher and safer ground

Over 10,000 pilgrims are reported to have been moved to base camps or military shelters, and no new registrations are being allowed until weather improves.

Weather Forecast and Future Plans

The IMD has predicted continued heavy rainfall in the region till July 23, warning of:

• More landslides
• Waterlogging in valley areas
• Cloudbursts in upper reaches

As of now:

• Yatra may resume partially on July 18 if weather permits.
• Restoration of routes is underway, especially focusing on the critical Baltal sector, where most damage occurred.