With the introduction of these new counters, the total number has been increased to 47, offering pilgrims a wider range of locations for registration.
In anticipation of the upcoming Navratri festival and the surge of devotees visiting the Vaishno Devi Shrine, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has initiated registration counters at the Katra railway station to facilitate pilgrims. The move aims to streamline the registration process and enhance security measures during the festive season.
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CEO Anshul Garg announced the commencement of eight dedicated registration counters at the station, operational from 5 am, providing pilgrims with added convenience. With the introduction of these new counters, the total number has been increased to 47, offering pilgrims a wider range of locations for registration.
In efforts to bolster security, the SMVDSB has introduced new RFID cards, making registration mandatory for all pilgrims. CEO Garg emphasized the significance of these security enhancements and emphasized the deployment of additional security forces and quick response teams to ensure the safety of devotees.
A recent meeting at Katra presided over by CEO Garg, accentuated the collaborative efforts with security agencies and local authorities to reinforce security protocols and operational preparedness for the Navratra festival from October 3 to 12. Stringent security measures, including enhanced surveillance through drones and CCTV cameras along the pilgrimage route and shrine area, will be implemented for comprehensive monitoring.
In line with directives from Chairman Manoj Sinha, the SMVDSB is committed to meticulous planning and effective coordination to manage crowd control, fire safety, and disaster preparedness, underscoring the importance of a synchronized approach to handle the expected pilgrim influx.
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Moreover, plans are underway to address traffic congestion issues caused by unauthorised parking through a special enforcement drive. The Board emphasizes the sanctity of the pilgrimage experience by focusing on cleanliness, sufficient water supply, and improved lighting along the pilgrimage route for the comfort of all devotees.
With a steadfast dedication to ensuring a safe and spiritually enriching experience for pilgrims, the SMVDSB aims to uphold the essence of the pilgrimage tradition while prioritizing the well-being of every devotee during the forthcoming Navratra festivities. The measures taken seek to guarantee a seamless and incident-free celebration at the revered Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
(With PTI inputs)
