
Wed Sep 17 03:19:21 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summary and rewrite based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage has resumed in Jammu and Kashmir on September 17, 2025, after a 22-day suspension following a devastating landslide that killed 34 people. Hundreds of pilgrims gathered to restart the yatra, expressing joy and relief. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has reopened the route, advising pilgrims to follow safety guidelines, carry identification, and use RFID tracking. The board expressed gratitude to devotees for their patience and anticipates a large number of pilgrims in the coming days, especially with Navratri approaching.
**News Article Rewrite:**
**Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage Resumes After Landslide Tragedy; Devotees Rejoice**
**Jammu, September 17, 2025** – Chants of “Jai Mata Di” filled the air today as the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage in Jammu and Kashmir resumed after a 22-day suspension. The pilgrimage was halted on August 26th following a deadly landslide that claimed the lives of 34 people and injured 20 along the route to the mountaintop shrine.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) announced the reopening, contingent on favorable weather conditions, bringing relief and joy to hundreds of devotees who had been waiting in Katra, the base camp for the pilgrimage.
“We are extremely happy that the yatra has resumed,” said one pilgrim from Pune, Maharashtra. “It was a difficult wait, but we were sure we were going to have a ‘darshan’.”
The yatra recommenced at 6 a.m. from both routes leading to the shrine. Shrine officials emphasized the importance of safety, advising pilgrims to carry valid identification, adhere to designated pathways, and cooperate with on-ground staff. Radio Frequency Identity Card (RFID)-based tracking remains mandatory for transparency and traceability.
“The resumption of the Yatra marks a reaffirmation of our collective faith and resilience,” stated an SMVDSB official. “The board remains committed to upholding the sanctity, safety, and dignity of this revered pilgrimage.”
With the path now declared safe, the pilgrimage is expected to draw a large influx of devotees in the coming days, particularly with the auspicious Navratri festival commencing on September 22nd. The SMVDSB urges all pilgrims to remain updated through official communication channels and strictly adhere to safety guidelines.