Kishtwar, October 4 — The District Administration of Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday suspended the ongoing Machail Mata pilgrimage from October 5 to 7, as a precautionary measure against inclement weather conditions forecast by the India Meteorological Department, according to information available with The Chenab Times.
The order, issued by District Magistrate Pankaj Kumar Sharma under advisory No. DCK/PS/25/F.No.08/332 dated October 3, 2025, invokes the IMD’s alert for heavy rainfall and potential landslides in the region, which could pose significant risks to the safety of pilgrims and Shardhalus (devotees). “The movement of Shardhalus (pilgrims) towards the Machail Mata Shrine shall remain suspended from 5th to 7th October, 2025, as a precautionary measure,” the advisory states, emphasising that no pilgrim shall be permitted to proceed towards the shrine during this period.
This suspension comes in the wake of the IMD’s general advisory to the public and all intending visitors, highlighting the adverse weather forecast that includes heavy downpours capable of triggering landslides in the vulnerable hilly terrain surrounding the shrine. The Machail Mata temple, a revered site dedicated to the goddess Mata Vaishno Devi’s manifestation, draws thousands of devotees annually during the Navratri season, with the yatra typically commencing in July and concluding in September. However, extended monsoonal activity this year has necessitated such interventions to safeguard lives.
The administration has urged all devotees, local committees, and stakeholders to extend full cooperation and strictly adhere to the guidelines. Measures include directives to the Senior Superintendent of Police, Kishtwar, for information and with a request to direct concerned police stations/Nakas/police posts to ensure no yatra-related movement within their respective jurisdictions. Tehsildars have been tasked with ensuring necessary action, while the District Information Officer has been instructed to publicise the notice through all available means, including public announcements and social media platforms.
“This measure is purely in the interest of public safety and well-being,” the order underscores, reflecting the district’s proactive stance amid recurring weather-related disruptions in the Chenab Valley. Copies of the advisory have been forwarded to the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; Director, Tourism, Jammu; and other relevant officials for coordination.
As the region braces for the forecast downpours, authorities have appealed for public vigilance, with the suspension set to be reviewed post-October 7 based on updated meteorological bulletins. The decision underscores the delicate balance between faith and safety in one of Jammu and Kashmir’s most cherished spiritual circuits.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
