Katra: The holy pilgrimage to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine has resumed after being suspended for 22 days, bringing relief to thousands of devotees. As the yatra reopened on Wednesday, streams of pilgrims were seen making their way to Katra, the base camp for the revered shrine in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district.
The suspension had been enforced due to adverse weather and safety concerns along the route. Authorities confirmed that all necessary precautions, including security arrangements and medical facilities, have been put in place to ensure a smooth and safe journey for visitors.
Devotees arriving in Katra expressed joy and gratitude at being able to resume their spiritual journey. Many said they had been waiting patiently for the pilgrimage to restart, considering it a long-awaited blessing.
Local traders and service providers, who had faced financial strain during the suspension period, also welcomed the resumption, hoping for a revival of the bustling religious tourism that sustains the region’s economy.