Amarnath Yatra suspended as heavy rain forecast raises weather concerns

New Delhi: The Amarnath Yatra was suspended on Saturday as authorities took note of worsening weather conditions and a forecast of heavy rain in parts of Jammu and Kashmir.

No fresh batch of pilgrims was allowed to leave the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu for the Valley. Officials said the decision was taken as a precaution in view of the weather forecast, particularly for the Jammu division.

The pilgrimage has already seen a large turnout this year. More than 4.75 lakh pilgrims had visited the holy cave shrine for darshan till Friday. With the pilgrimage now well underway, the number of devotees arriving in Jammu has also started to decline.

Authorities to review situation

Officials said the decision to resume the movement of pilgrims would depend on weather conditions. The situation will be reviewed before any fresh batch is allowed to travel towards the Valley.

The administration is also keeping a close watch on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway which remains the main road route for pilgrims travelling from Jammu towards the base camps of the pilgrimage.

Any disruption on the highway could affect the movement of pilgrims, making weather and road conditions key factors in deciding when the Yatra can resume.

Highway conditions under watch

The Met Department has forecast heavy rain, particularly in Jammu division, prompting authorities to take additional precautions. Officials said the condition of the highway would be monitored closely during the suspension.

The road is the only route used by pilgrims travelling from Jammu to reach the base camps in the Valley. Authorities are therefore expected to take a decision on further movement only after assessing both the weather and the condition of the highway.

The suspension is temporary and will be reviewed according to the prevailing conditions. The officials have advised pilgrims to follow instructions from the administration and wait for clearance before beginning their onward journey.

With more than 4.75 lakh devotees already having completed darshan, the pilgrimage continues to draw large numbers despite the latest weather-related disruption.