Helicopter services faced disruptions due to overcast skies over Trikuta Hills, while battery car and ropeway services remained operational for thousands of pilgrims.
Katra witnessed steady momentum in the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage on Monday, as devotees continued their journey toward the shrine despite a sudden shift in weather that brought cold winds and light overnight rain to the region.
Overcast skies prevailed over the Trikuta Hills throughout much of the day, accompanied by persistent chilly winds. The adverse weather conditions impacted helicopter operations between Katra and the shrine, causing suspensions for the greater part of the day.
However, alternative modes of transport, including battery car services, horses, pithus, and palanquins, remained operational to assist pilgrims. Meanwhile, devotees seeking to visit the Bhairavnath temple utilized the ropeway service to reach the Bhairav valley seamlessly.
Despite the drop in temperature, large numbers of pilgrims arrived in Katra, completed their registration process, and proceeded toward the Bhawan with enthusiasm. Authorities noted that many visitors carried light woollens and rain gear as precautionary measures against the changing weather patterns.
According to meteorological department forecasts predicting possible rainfall in the coming days, authorities have advised travelers to remain cautious during the pilgrimage. By Monday evening, approximately 18,000 devotees had registered and departed for the shrine, with arrivals continuing into the late evening hours.
