Amarnath, Vaishno Devi Yatras temporarily suspended due to bad weather

NEW DELHI: Authorities on Saturday temporarily suspended the Amarnath Yatra and Vaishno Devi Yatra due to an adverse weather forecast, saying the decision was taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of pilgrims.

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) said the Vaishno Devi Yatra has been temporarily suspended following an inclement weather advisory issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

In an official statement, the Shrine Board said the decision was taken to ensure the safety and well-being of devotees. Pilgrims have been advised to remain patient and follow updates issued through the board's official communication channels.

The board said authorities are continuously monitoring the weather situation and the yatra will resume once conditions are considered safe.

Meanwhile, authorities in Jammu and Kashmir also announced that the Shri Amarnath Yatra will remain temporarily suspended from July 19 due to the IMD's forecast of adverse weather.

"In view of inclement weather forecast issued by India Meteorological Department (IMD), Shri Amarnathji Yatra shall remain temporarily suspended from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes with effect from 19.07.2026 as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of the pilgrims," Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg said in a statement.

He said no onward movement of pilgrims will be allowed from the Baltal and Nunwan/Chandanwari base camps from Sunday.

"Updates regarding the resumption of Yatra shall be issued in due course of time after ensuring route safety and comprehensive assessment of the weather conditions," Garg said.

According to officials, more than 3.76 lakh pilgrims have offered prayers at the Amarnath cave shrine during the ongoing yatra so far.

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