Yogesh
Jammu, July 21 :
A landslide struck the old track leading to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Reasi district this morning, injuring at least six pilgrims, officials said.
An official told news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) the incident, triggered by heavy rainfall in Katra town—occurred at approximately 8:50 am near Gulshan Ka Langar, close to Banganga, the starting point of the yatra frequented by pony riders.
He said following the incident immediate rescue operation was launched by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local police. “Six pilgrims, who were trapped in the debris, were rescued and promptly shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment,” he said.
BMO Katra Hospital Dr Rashpaul Bansotra confirmed six individuals injured in the landslide were brought to the hospital and their condition is stable.
Rescue operation is still underway to clear the debris and ensure safety of other pilgrims in the vicinity. Authorities have advised pilgrims to exercise caution and avoid the affected old track until further notice—(KNO)