LG Sinha Inaugurates New Helipad in Katra for Vaishno Devi, Shiv Khori Pilgrims | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday inaugurated a newly constructed helipad in Katra aimed at improving helicopter services for pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi and Shiv Khori shrines.

Officials said the facility has been developed at an estimated cost of Rs 27 crore and is expected to enhance connectivity for devotees travelling to the two religious sites. Helicopter services between Katra and Shiv Khori are also expected to begin shortly.

Speaking to reporters after inaugurating the facility, Sinha said the heliport had been jointly developed by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board and the Shiv Khori Shrine Board.

He described the heliport as a modern facility developed with a focus on passenger convenience and safety standards.

The Lieutenant Governor said the heliport had been constructed in accordance with norms laid down by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

He added that devotees visiting Shiv Khori would also be able to use helicopter services from the new facility for darshan. According to Sinha, the decision to construct the heliport was taken in view of the increasing demand for helicopter services, particularly among pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi.

He expressed hope that the improved infrastructure would benefit pilgrims and contribute to the promotion of religious tourism in the region.

Katra already has two helipads — one in Katra town and another at Sanjichat — catering to pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi cave shrine.