In the Jammu-Kashmir region, heavy snowfall in the highlands and continuous rainfall in the plains prompted the suspension of helicopter and ropeway services at the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage site on Thursday. The much-needed rains after a long dry spell in Jammu have been welcomed by the local farmers.
Helicopter and Ropeway Services Suspended
According to officials, due to the adverse weather, the helicopter service from Katra to the Trikuta Mountains, where the Vaishno Devi Shrine is situated, was suspended in the morning. Additionally, as a precautionary measure, the ropeway service from the shrine to the Bhairon Temple has also been halted.
Devotees' Pilgrimage Unaffected; Battery Car Service Operational
Despite these disruptions, devotees continued their pilgrimage without any hindrance. Pilgrims travelling from the Katra base camp to the shrine experienced no difficulties. The battery car service remained fully operational.
Effects on Hill Stations and Highways
The hills surrounding the Vaishno Devi Shrine are draped in a blanket of snow, offering pilgrims a mesmerizing view. Patnitop, a renowned hill station, and its vicinity also witnessed snowfall.
Rain persisted throughout the day on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, yet traffic flowed seamlessly. Meanwhile, reports of snowfall also emerged from the Pir Ki Gali near Mughal Road in Poonch district, Banihal Hills in Ramban district, Sinthan Top in Kishtwar, and the upper regions of Doda, Kathua, and Reasi. The incessant rain has disrupted daily life in Jammu city and other lower regions, accompanied by a significant drop in daytime temperatures, intensifying the cold.
