J&K Floods: IAF Aircraft To Join Rescue Ops, Landslide Blocks Vaishno Devi Route

Heavy rainfall in several parts of Jammu and Kashmir has triggered floods and landslides, creating a serious crisis situation. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed two aircraft to carry out relief and rescue operations in the affected areas. Troops and equipment are being airlifted to provide immediate support to stranded people and ensure timely evacuation from vulnerable zones.A major incident was reported on Monday morning near the Vaishno Devi temple route in Katra, where a landslide caused significant disruption. According to initial reports, a protective shed collapsed due to the landslide, forcing authorities to shut down the main pilgrimage path. As a safety measure, services including battery cars, cable cars, and helicopter rides to the shrine have been suspended until further notice.Thousands of devotees visiting the temple have been impacted, with many stranded in the region. Rescue teams, including local administration, NDRF, and IAF, are coordinating to restore safe access. Officials have urged devotees to avoid travel to the shrine until weather conditions improve and routes are cleared.The latest disaster highlights the impact of extreme weather patterns in J&K, where continuous rainfall has swollen rivers and raised fears of further landslides in hilly terrain.