Manimahesh Yatra Halted as Nature Turns Hostile: Devotees Stranded, Two Lives Lost
The sacred Manimahesh Yatra in Himachal Pradesh has been suspended indefinitely as heavy rains and fresh snowfall wreak havoc across the Chamba region, turning the spiritual journey into a struggle for survival.
Authorities have issued strict instructions to halt all movement toward Manimahesh Lake, urging devotees to stay put for their safety. Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) and Block Development Officers (BDOs) in Bharmour, Mehla, Chamba, and Bhatiyat have been mobilized to arrange shelter and support for those stranded en route.
Tragedy Strikes Pilgrimage
In a heartbreaking turn, two young devotees from Pathankot, Punjab, lost their lives during the Yatra. Aman (18) was rescued from Kamal Kund but tragically passed away at Gaurikund, while Rohit (18) died on the treacherous Kugti track. His body was recovered by a team of mountaineering experts and NDRF personnel and brought to Bharmour.
ADM Bharmour, Kulbir Singh Rana, confirmed the suspension of the pilgrimage and urged all devotees to remain in safe locations. “The Yatra has been temporarily stopped since yesterday. Devotees are advised to remain at safe places in view of their safety,” he stated.
Roads Blocked, Devotees Still Marching
The Pathankot–Bharmour National Highway is blocked at multiple points, including Kalsui Jangi and Durgethi, halting all vehicular movement. Despite warnings, around 250 devotees from Lahaul began their journey on Monday, facing increasingly dangerous conditions due to snowfall and rain.
Nearly half a foot of snow has been recorded at Kugti Pass, making the route perilous. A final decision on resuming the Yatra will be taken after the Dev Khel ritual in Jobrang village.
A Plea for Patience and Safety
With weather conditions worsening and roads impassable, the administration has reached out to officials in Jammu, Doda, Kishtwar, and Kangra, requesting them not to send any more devotees toward Bharmour.
As the region battles nature’s fury, the focus remains on protecting lives and ensuring that stranded pilgrims are cared for until conditions improve.
