On 26 August 2025, torrential monsoon rains wreaked havoc across the Jammu region. Rivers overflowed, flash floods swept through low-lying areas, and landslides struck the hilly terrain, causing widespread destruction of infrastructure bridges collapsed, mobile towers were knocked down, and electricity poles broke apart without warning.
Communication across the region was severely disrupted. Telecom services collapsed as optical fibres were damaged, leaving residents and pilgrims cut off from vital means of contact.
Tragic Landslide on Pilgrimage Route
At around 3 pm near Adhkwari on the 12-km trek to the sacred Mata Vaishno Devi shrine atop Trikuta hill, a massive landslide hit a group of pilgrims. At least nine people were killed instantly, and over 20 others were injured. In some reports, the death toll stands at 13 when accounting for victims across the broader region.
Rescue operations commenced immediately. The Indian Army’s White Knight Corps deployed three relief columns, rushing to help search for those trapped under debris and assist the injured.
Chaos and Cancellations
The pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi was suspended by authorities for safety. Key national highways—including the Jammu–Srinagar and Kishtwar–Doda routes—were closed due to landslides and flash floods. Dozens of other hill roads were also rendered impassable.
Rail disruptions added to the turmoil. Northern Railways cancelled 18 trains to and from Jammu, Katra, and Udhampur, with additional services cut short.
Ongoing Response and Alerts
In response to the disaster, 24/7 control rooms were activated across districts, and emergency helpline numbers were circulated for public assistance. Authorities also issued advisories to avoid travel during night hours and warned of continued heavy rainfall.
Heartfelt Impact
This sudden calamity brought an abrupt halt to one of India's most cherished pilgrimages, reminding us of nature’s unpredictable force. The loss of lives and massive disruption to transport, communication, and daily routines have left communities reeling. Relief and rescue efforts are underway, but the scars of this disaster are deep and long-lasting.