Amarnath Yatra postponed for second day due to bad weather and landslides

The annual Amarnath Yatra remained suspended for the second consecutive day amid adverse weather conditions and heavy rains. The holy cave received light snowfall, which further complicated the situation. As a result, no fresh batch of pilgrims were allowed to move from Jammu to Kashmir.

Highway Blockage and Landslide

The only connectivity highway, NH1, which connects Kashmir with the rest of the country, faced blockade due to landslides and falling stones in the Panthyal area. Due to this, the authorities had to stop the movement of pilgrims from the Jammu base camp. Overnight rains triggered several landslides on the 270-km Jammu-Srinagar national highway in Ramban district.

Travel suspended and train services disrupted

Due to adverse weather conditions, the fresh batch of pilgrims were not allowed to proceed towards the holy cave from Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu. Besides, the Amarnath Yatra remained suspended for the second consecutive day on the Baltal and Pahalgam routes in the Kashmir Valley. Train services were also suspended between Qazigund and Banihal due to water-logging at Hiller Anantnag railway station.

flood like situation and road submerged

Due to incessant rains, the water level in the rivers and canals of Anantnag district increased, resulting in a flood-like situation. Several approach roads were inundated, causing problems in transportation.

Weather forecast and advice

Issuing a warning, the Meteorological Department has predicted a cloudy sky and rain and thundershowers in Jammu and Kashmir. Scattered light to moderate rain and thundershowers very likely at most places, with heavy to very heavy falls at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir divisions.

The weather forecast for July 9 indicates isolated light to moderate rain and thundershowers over most parts of Jammu and Kashmir, with isolated heavy falls over Jammu division.

From July 10 to July 14, it will be generally cloudy with chances of intermittent rain and thundershowers, especially in the evening or early morning hours.

advisory measures

The authorities issued a number of advisories to the public:

1. Be alert in low-lying catchment areas, as flash floods, landslides and landslides can occur.
2. There is a possibility of temporary waterlogging and minor flooding in low-lying areas.
3. Temporary disruption of surface transport is likely on Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, Mughal Road, Srinagar-Leh National Highway and other major hill roads.
4. Stay indoors during thunderstorms and lightning.
5. According to the forecast of the Meteorological Department, there may be light snowfall in the higher reaches of Kashmir Division.