Srinagar: Internet and mobile services across Jammu and Kashmir were restored Wednesday afternoon after a 24-hour outage, even as the region reeled from relentless rains, flash floods and a deadly landslide that killed at least 32 pilgrims on the Vaishno Devi shrine trek.
The disaster struck Adhkuwari, a midway point on the 12-km route to the hilltop temple, around 3 p.m. Tuesday, injuring 20 others and trapping several devotees under debris. Rescue teams continue to battle treacherous terrain and downpours to locate survivors.
The communications blackout, caused by damage to optical fibre lines, left millions without phone or internet access at a critical moment, hampering coordination of relief efforts.
For four straight days, heavy rain has battered Jammu and Kashmir, pushing rivers including the Chenab, Tawi and Jhelum above danger levels, triggering landslides, and forcing thousands from their homes. Eighteen trains have been cancelled after floodwaters damaged rail tracks, and key roads remain blocked.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has urged devotees to defer their pilgrimage until weather conditions improve. Authorities in Srinagar and Jammu have warned of “massive damage” to infrastructure if rains persist and advised people to avoid low-lying areas.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a review meeting in Jammu on Tuesday, ordering officials to remain on high alert and releasing emergency funds for district administrations. Weather experts have described the next 24 hours as “critical” as swollen rivers and saturated hillsides threaten further disasters.
