The Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra resumed on Wednesday morning, accompanied by chants of 'Jai Mata Di' and a throng of devotees. The pilgrimage leads to the famous Vaishno Devi temple, located on the Trikuta Hills in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir.

The pilgrimage was suspended 22 days ago due to a devastating landslide that killed 34 people and injured 20. Devotees were enthusiastic after the resumption of the pilgrimage.

Weather favorable, temple board gives green signal
According to officials, the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) decided to resume the pilgrimage as soon as the weather turned favorable. The town of Katra witnessed a heavy footfall since morning. Devotees began gathering at the Banganga Darshan Gate early in the morning, expressing both joy and emotion at the resumption of the pilgrimage.

The temple administration informed that permission was granted from 6 am on both routes, including both the new and old routes. Maintenance and repair work was also carried out during the halt to ensure the safety of pilgrims.

Happiness among both devotees and local merchants
The resumption of the pilgrimage has brought relief not only to devotees but also to local merchants, hoteliers, and small shopkeepers. Katra's economy depends heavily on this pilgrimage, and the halt to the pilgrimage had severely affected business.

While devotees were excited to visit Mata Rani, local residents welcomed the administration's decision and appealed for cooperation from pilgrims.