Heavy Rain Forecast Forces Suspension of Amarnath, Vaishno Devi and Shiv Khori Yatras

Authorities on Sunday temporarily suspended the Amarnath Yatra along with the Mata Vaishno Devi and Shiv Khori pilgrimages after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast moderate to widespread rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir from July 19 to 23 .

The decision was taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims , with officials halting all onward movement from the Baltal and Pahalgam routes of the Amarnath Yatra. Pilgrims will also not be allowed to proceed from the Baltal and Nunwan/Chandanwari base camps in Kashmir or the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu until further notice.

Officials said the suspension came after the IMD warned of persistent rainfall over the next few days , while rainfall and cloudburst incidents were reported in parts of Kashmir on Sunday morning. Authorities will review the situation only after conducting comprehensive weather and route safety assessments before allowing the pilgrimage to resume.

The annual Amarnath Yatra , which began on July 3 , has so far witnessed an overwhelming response, with more than 3.76 lakh devotees offering prayers at the revered cave shrine.

The weather advisory also prompted authorities to temporarily suspend the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage in Reasi district. Devotees have been advised to follow official updates and avoid travelling until conditions improve.

Similarly, the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board asked pilgrims to postpone their visit to the cave shrine, citing the IMD's warning of heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions in the Ransoo area. Officials said the situation is being monitored continuously, and a decision on resuming the pilgrimage will be taken only after weather conditions stabilise and routes are declared safe.

Authorities have urged devotees to rely on official advisories for the latest information and refrain from travelling until fresh announcements are issued.