KATRA, INDIAN-ADMINISTERED KASHMIR: At least 30 people have lost their lives and dozens more have been injured after a massive landslide struck near the Vaishno Devi shrine in Indian-administered Kashmir, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
The landslide, triggered by relentless monsoon rains, struck on Tuesday afternoon along the pilgrimage route to the revered Hindu temple in the Katra area. Rescue operations are continuing as security forces, disaster response teams, and local volunteers work to clear debris and search for survivors.
Senior Superintendent of Police Paramvir Singh told Anadolu Agency that 30 fatalities have been verified so far, with fears the toll could rise. “Efforts are being made round-the-clock to rescue those trapped under the rubble,” he said.
Pilgrimage Suspended Amid Disaster
Authorities have temporarily halted the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, one of Hinduism’s most popular religious journeys, following the disaster. Local reports said the decision was taken to ensure safety as the terrain remains unstable.
Infrastructure Collapse and Communication Blackout
The heavy rains have not only triggered landslides but also devastated infrastructure across the Himalayan region. Bridges, roads, and homes have been washed away, leaving thousands stranded. Telecommunications have been “almost nonexistent,” according to regional leaders, as officials scramble to restore electricity, water supplies, and mobile networks.
India’s Minister for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, said restoring essential services was the “immediate priority,” with teams working overnight to reconnect affected areas.
Regional Flood Risk Rising
The downpours have forced India to open gates of several swollen dams, raising concerns of downstream flooding in Pakistan. Islamabad began mass evacuations on Tuesday after receiving alerts from New Delhi about potential cross-border inundation. Tens of thousands of residents in Punjab province have been relocated to safer areas.
Monsoon Toll Mounts
Floods and landslides are a recurring threat during South Asia’s June–September monsoon season, but scientists warn that climate change is intensifying both the frequency and severity of such disasters.
Since June, more than 1,200 people have died in monsoon-related incidents across India, while Pakistan has reported over 800 fatalities, according to DPA. Earlier this month, another series of landslides in Kishtwar district of Indian-administered Kashmir killed dozens and left around 200 people missing.
With forecasts predicting more rain in the coming days, authorities in both India and Pakistan remain on high alert, bracing for further flooding and potential devastation.
For continued updates on Asian geopolitics, stay with us.
Sources: Pakistan News Beat Agency!
FAQ’s
Q1: Where did the Kashmir landslide occur?
A1: The landslide struck near the Vaishno Devi shrine on the pilgrimage route in the Katra area of Indian-administered Kashmir.
Q2: How many people have died in the Kashmir landslide?
A2: At least 30 people have been confirmed dead, with many others injured.
Q3: What caused the Kashmir landslide?
A3: Heavy monsoon rains triggered the landslide, which also caused severe flooding and infrastructure damage in the region.
Q4: Is the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage suspended after the landslide?
A4: Yes, authorities have temporarily suspended the pilgrimage for safety reasons.
Q5: How many people have died in South Asia due to monsoon rains this year?
A5: More than 1,200 people have died in India and at least 800 in Pakistan since June.
