Fog, bad weather affect heli-service for Vaishno Devi on 3rd consecutive day in Katra

JAMMU: Heli-services from Katra to Sanji Chhat and vice-versa on Sunday remain affected, as dense blanket of fog and bad weather enveloped the Trikuta Hills of Reasi for the third consecutive day.

“Due to bad weather and dense fog in the Trikuta Hills, heli-service from Katra to Sanji Chhat remain suspended for the third day," officials said.

They said pilgrims are trekking on foot and on pony or palanquin services to reach the Bhawan of their holy deity.

“Chopper service will resume only after the weather improves,” officials said.

Ramesh Kumar, a devotee who came from Uttar Pradesh, said he came here with his elderly parents and children but, now, all of them were forced to travel on foot up to the shrine.

The Met office forecast weather will remain the same for the next 24 to 48 hours. Jammu & Kashmir is expected to receive heavy rainfall beginning on Sunday, providing relief from the heat wave.

Met office though warned of flash floods, landslides, and rising water levels, along with rain and thunderstorms, from July 6 to 8.