SMVDSB gears up for Navratri rush at Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine

Rajouri, Mar 18: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has stepped up preparations, including enhanced facilities and tightened security, ahead of the Navratri festival as a surge in pilgrims is expected at the cave shrine.

Navratri, a sacred Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, holds special significance at the Vaishno Devi shrine, as devotees observe fasts and offer prayers to seek blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi.

The shrine, nestled in the Trikuta Hills of Katra, remains one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in the country and like previous years, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board is expecting a threefold increase in the number of pilgrims from across the country and abroad during the Navratri period.

Chief Executive Officer of the Shrine Board, Sachin Kumar Vaishya stated that elaborate arrangements have been put in place to ensure a smooth and comfortable pilgrimage experience for the visiting devotees.

He said that all necessary facilities have been strengthened to cater to the anticipated surge in footfall.

To enhance the spiritual ambiance, the pilgrimage track has been beautified with a variety of seasonal flowers, while special fasting meals will be made available at langars along the route.

In addition, renowned devotional singers are scheduled to participate in daily aartis at the shrine, further enriching the religious atmosphere during the auspicious festival.

Security Tightened at Vaishno Devi Shrine, Pilgrimage Track

Security arrangements have been significantly strengthened at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine and along the entire pilgrimage track to ensure a safe and smooth yatra during the upcoming festive period.

Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Sachin Kumar Vaishya, said that all security agencies have heightened vigil at the shrine premises as well as on the route leading to the holy cave.

He stated that elaborate measures have been put in place to facilitate pilgrims while maintaining strict surveillance across the area.

“All forces have stepped up vigil to ensure a secure and hassle-free pilgrimage experience,” he said.

The CEO further informed that an Integrated Command and Control Room is already operational, providing round-the-clock monitoring of the shrine and its surroundings. High-quality CCTV cameras have been installed at strategic locations to keep a close watch on every nook and corner of the pilgrimage route.

Officials said the enhanced security grid aims to effectively manage the anticipated surge in devotees and ensure their safety during the auspicious Navratri festival.