The forest fire on Trikuta Hills has led to the suspension of pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, Katra, through the new route. The latest update stated that the pilgrimage through the new route continues to remain temporarily suspended. The fire has been reported near Himkoti on Trikuta Hills.

The yatra, however, remains unhindered through the traditional route.

The Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board had earlier suspended battery car service Wednesday morning due to the forest fire. The service was suspended due to shooting stones on the new track.

The fire had broken out near the Sanji Chhat helipad on Sunday evening. The Shrine Board had first decided to suspend the helicopter service on Monday.

The helicopter service was primarily suspended due to strong winds and low visibility on Trikuta Hills. The decision was taken to ensure the safety of pilgrims.

The helicopter service, however, resumed on Tuesday.

Shrine Board CEO Anshul Garg had stated that the fire had started in the Trikuta forest range in Jammu’s Reasi (where Mata Vaishno Devi shrine is located) but it did not affect the pilgrimage. However, the fire did damage the forest cover.