Asif Iqbal Naik
Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir – As a part of precautionary measure, the District Administration in J&K’s Kishtwar District has suspended the pilgrimage to the revered Machail Mata Shrine from October 5th to October 7th, 2025, due to forecasted adverse weather conditions.
According to an official advisory, the copy of which is available with News Insider 24X7 issued by District Magistrate Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma, the decision has been taken in view of the inclement weather advisory issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), which predicts heavy rainfall and potential landslides in the region. The suspension aims to ensure the safety and well-being of the pilgrims.
During the Suspension of the Yatra, the movement of pilgrims (Shardhaalus) towards the Machail Mata Shrine will remain suspended from October 5th to October 7th, 2025 beside no pilgrim will be permitted to proceed towards the shrine during the suspension period.
The administration has urged all devotees, local committees, and stakeholders to extend their full cooperation and strictly adhere to the guidelines.
The Machail Mata pilgrimage is a significant religious event that attracts thousands of devotees every year. However, the region’s susceptibility to natural disasters, such as flash floods and landslides, poses a considerable risk to the safety of pilgrims. In August 2025, a devastating flash flood struck the area, resulting in the loss of at least 71 lives with over 30 people still missing in wake of the aftermath of August 14, 2025 cloudburst in Chishoti village of the Padder; the last road point towards the Machail Matta Temple.
The authorities says that they have prioritized the safety of pilgrims and are working to ensure that necessary measures are in place to mitigate potential risks.
