A fire partially damaged the helipad terminal in Katra, the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine atop the Trikuta hills in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, early on Sunday, September 20, 2026.
Officials confirmed that no casualties were reported in the incident.
What Happened
The fire broke out at the helipad terminal around 3:15 am. The terminal, an important transit point for pilgrims using helicopter services to the shrine, was closed at the time of the incident.
According to officials, the blaze was apparently caused by a short circuit. It was brought under control within about 30 minutes through the joint efforts of terminal staff, security personnel, and Fire and Emergency Services.
Damage Reported
Some computers at the ticket counter were reduced to ashes.
A coffee shop inside the terminal was also damaged.
The overall extent of the damage is currently being assessed by the authorities. An investigation is underway to confirm the exact cause of the fire.
Importance of the Terminal
The helipad terminal serves as a key facility for pilgrims travelling by helicopter to the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi. It handles ticketing, waiting areas, and related passenger amenities.
Authorities have assured that operations will be restored at the earliest after damage assessment and necessary repairs.