(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Gears Up for Shardiya Navratras 2025
In Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) is leaving no stone unturned for the upcoming Shardiya Navratras. On Saturday, CEO Sachin Kumar Vaishya led a key meeting with security agencies and local officials to review all preparations. The festival kicks off on September 22 and runs until October 1, 2025, promising a huge rush of devotees.
The meeting included top SMVDSB officials like the Additional CEO, Joint CEO, Deputy CEO, and Assistant CEOs. Security experts from SSP Reasi, Commandant CRPF, SDM Katra, SP Katra, Tehsildar Bhawan, and SDPO Katra joined in. Representatives from the Army, Fire and Emergency Services, and other teams also attended to ensure smooth coordination.
Vaishya stressed that Navratras are just around the corner, and the board expects thousands of pilgrims at the holy shrine and Katra base camp. He urged everyone to work together for a seamless Vaishno Devi Yatra experience. "We need synergy among all stakeholders to handle the crowd," he said, pushing for quick actions on every front.
Following directions from SMVDSB Chairman (Lt. Governor of Jammu and Kashmir UT), the focus stayed on disaster management. This includes strong firefighting setups and mock drills. Vaishya directed SDRF teams to team up with the SMVDSB Disaster Management Task Force. They’ll monitor risky spots and boost crowd control during the pilgrimage season.
To keep things safe and organized, the CEO called for more signboards along the yatra track, regular announcements, and joint patrols to ease congestion. Holding areas will help manage crowds, and teams must ready gas cutters and rescue gear in all zones. He also wants better communication—revive wireless systems and upgrade networks for non-stop coordination.
The Integrated Command and Control Centre will play a big role in real-time monitoring and quick responses. Pilgrims, take note: You need valid RFID cards for the Vaishno Devi Yatra. Extra handheld scanners and staff will check this at entry points.
Officials discussed verifying pithoo (porters) and ponywallas to stop fakes and ensure only legit helpers join the track. SDM Katra got the task to spot more holding areas in town for bad weather days when the yatra might pause.
Other plans cover smooth vehicle movement, clean sanitation, plenty of drinking water, and lighting up dark spots in Katra. Vaishya asked for on-ground checks and fixes to improve both physical setups and systems.
Security reps shared challenges for forces handling the pilgrim surge. SSP Reasi and CRPF Commandant outlined a tight security grid, including Quick Response Teams (QRTs) and multi-layer protection with police, CRPF, and paramilitary units. This covers Katra and the route to the shrine, making the Navratras safe for all devotees.
With these steps, the SMVDSB aims to make the 2025 Shardiya Navratras a memorable and worry-free pilgrimage for everyone heading to Mata Vaishno Devi.
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