Jammu Schools Closed on September 3 Amid Weather Warnings; Vaishno Devi Yatra Remains Suspended

As heavy rainfall continues to lash various parts of Jammu and Kashmir, the Directorate of School Education, Jammu (DSEJ) has announced the closure of all schools across Jammu Division on September 3, 2025, in the interest of student and staff safety. The decision applies to both government and private schools, and comes amid increasing concerns over flash floods, landslides, and waterlogging caused by continuous downpours.

Schools Closed Across Jammu Division

The closure order was issued by Director School Education Jammu, Naseem Javaid Chowdhary, citing official weather advisories predicting severe conditions. These advisories have warned of “heavy rainfall, landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts,” which pose significant risks to life and infrastructure.

“To ensure the safety of students and staff, it is hereby ordered that all Government and Private schools across Jammu Division shall remain closed on 03-09-2025,” the official order stated.

Additionally, the Directorate has instructed schools to conduct online classes where feasible, to minimize disruption to academic schedules.

This decision follows several days of heavy rainfall, which has already led to flooding in low-lying areas, damage to roads, and concerns about the structural integrity of school buildings in vulnerable zones.

Safety First Amid Natural Calamities

The move comes as part of a precautionary approach to safeguarding students, many of whom would otherwise be forced to travel through flood-prone or landslide-affected regions. Authorities have urged parents to stay updated with weather bulletins and refrain from sending children to school in unsafe conditions, even after official closure dates, should the weather persist.

Meanwhile, local administrations in various districts of Jammu Division have also been advised to remain on high alert and keep disaster response teams ready to handle any emergencies.

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra Remains Suspended for 8th Day

In a parallel development that underscores the severity of the current weather situation, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra remains suspended for the eighth consecutive day. The pilgrimage was first halted on August 27, following a landslide triggered by torrential rains, which claimed 34 lives in the Trikuta hills area of Reasi district.

Persistent bad weather has since hampered all efforts to resume the yatra. Authorities have cited safety concerns due to continuous rainfall, fresh landslides, and the risk of flash floods as the main reasons for extending the suspension.

The movement of pilgrims from the Katra base camp—the starting point of the sacred trek—has been completely restricted. The base camp and surrounding areas now wear a deserted look, as devotees wait anxiously for the pilgrimage to resume.

Shrine Board and Administration Monitor Situation Closely

Officials from the Reasi district administration and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board are reportedly monitoring the situation round-the-clock. Restoration work is ongoing, with multiple teams deployed to repair damaged pathways, clear landslide debris, and assess the structural safety of the trekking route.

However, the inclement weather has slowed down progress. No official date has been announced for the resumption of the yatra, and authorities have advised pilgrims to avoid planning trips to the area until further notice.

High-Level Committee Formed to Probe Deadly Landslide

In response to the tragic landslide that killed 34 people on August 27, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has constituted a high-level committee to investigate the incident and recommend safety improvements.

The committee will be headed by Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary of the Jal Shakti Department, and includes:

• Divisional Commissioner, Jammu
• Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu

The probe will examine the causes and circumstances that led to the landslide and evaluate the disaster preparedness and response mechanisms currently in place at key pilgrimage sites.

The goal is to prevent such tragedies in the future through a comprehensive review of geological risks, infrastructure design, and emergency protocols.

Weather Wreaks Havoc Across Region

The continuous rainfall has also caused severe waterlogging in urban pockets, interrupted power supply, and cut off road connectivity in parts of the region. Emergency services have been deployed in flood-prone districts, while traffic police have issued advisories warning against travel on landslide-prone routes.

Meteorological forecasts continue to predict more rain over the next 48 hours, and authorities have urged people to remain indoors unless absolutely necessary. The Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) is closely coordinating with district-level officials to assess and respond to emerging risks.

Authorities Urge Caution and Cooperation

In light of the current crisis, both school authorities and religious institutions are urging the public to exercise extreme caution. While the closure of schools and suspension of the yatra may cause temporary disruptions, officials emphasise that safety and preservation of life must take precedence.

Citizens have been asked to:

• Monitor official advisories and weather alerts
• Avoid travel through affected areas
• Stay away from rivers, streams, and unstable slopes
• Report emergencies to local disaster response teams
• Ensure children and elderly remain indoors

Conclusion:

With worsening weather conditions and a rising threat of natural disasters, the closure of schools in Jammu Division and the continued suspension of the Vaishno Devi Yatra are timely and necessary safety measures. The government's proactive steps—including the formation of a high-level investigation committee—signal a serious intent to both manage the immediate crisis and prevent future tragedies.