India News : At least 32 people have died in a massive landslide near the Vaishno Devi temple in Katra following heavy rainfall on Tuesday, confirmed Reasi Senior Superintendent of Police Parampveer Singh.
The landslide occurred near the Indraprastha Bhojanalaya close to the Adhkuwari cave temple, a key point on the pilgrimage route.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) posted on X (formerly Twitter) that rescue operations are underway with manpower and machinery deployed, as several people are feared injured.
Authorities also reported severe soil erosion and flash floods in the Chakki River, which disrupted rail traffic between Pathankot Cantt and Kandrorri, leading to the cancellation of 18 trains.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that NDRF teams were rushed to the site immediately. He spoke with Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, assuring full support. Local administration and rescue teams continue to provide assistance to the injured.
LG Manoj Sinha expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and instructed officials to provide immediate aid to the injured. He said authorities are closely monitoring the situation across Jammu division amid heavy rainfall and urged people to follow safety advisories.
CM Omar Abdullah also confirmed his conversation with Amit Shah on X, noting that continuous heavy rains have caused widespread damage and disruption to normal life in Jammu province. Efforts are also underway to restore phone and data connectivity at the earliest.
