JAMMU, Jan 27: The upcoming Delhi-Srinagar train connectivity is
poised to significantly enhance pilgrimage to the revered Mata Vaishno
Devi shrine, a top official from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine
Board (SMVDSB) said today.
Speaking at the 76th Republic Day celebration held at the Shrine
Board’s Sports Complex in Katra, SMVDSB Chief Executive Officer Anshul
Garg outlined plans to establish Katra as a regional tourism hub. He
highlighted ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including a Rs 20-crore
Darshani Deodi Queue Complex, capable of accommodating 1,500 devotees
in all weather conditions, and several projects to improve the overall
pilgrimage experience.
Garg emphasized the transformative impact of the Delhi-Srinagar train
link, which includes the Katra-Srinagar section recently completed
with the trial run of a specially-designed Vande Bharat Express on
January 25. “This connectivity will firmly establish Katra as a
crucial transit station for pilgrims, further boosting footfall to the
holy shrine,” he stated.
Pilgrim-Friendly Developments
To cater to the increasing number of devotees, a yatri facilitation
center has been operationalized at Katra Railway Station, allowing
pilgrims to conveniently complete their registration for the yatra.
The shrine witnessed an influx of over 90 lakh annual pilgrims for the
third consecutive year, reflecting its growing popularity among
devotees nationwide and abroad.
Among the major initiatives, Garg highlighted the Rs 25-crore
skywalk-inspired exit track to decongest the Bhawan area and the new
Vaishnavi Bhawan to enhance facilities for visitors. Other projects
include a three-storey Shubhra Bhawan, upgraded tracks and drainage
systems, and an ambitious Laser Light and Sound project aimed at
enriching the pilgrimage experience.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Upgrades
Plans are also underway to improve access to the Shiv Khori shrine
with the construction of a helipad and to develop four temples along
the Trikuta Hills Parikrama Marg. To rejuvenate the ecology of the
Banganga rivulet, the shrine board, in collaboration with the Union
government, is developing contiguous embankments and synchronized
development of the area.
For enhanced convenience, new facilities will include a dedicated
battery car parking area, expanded holding areas at Adhkuwari,
AI-based CCTV cameras for real-time monitoring, and a command control
center set to launch during the upcoming Chaitra Navratras.
Priority for Local Residents
As part of the shrine board’s community-focused initiatives, residents
of Katra town and 41 nearby villages will be granted priority darshan
at the shrine upon presenting Aadhaar as valid address proof at Durga
Bhawan, Garg announced.
With these initiatives, the shrine board aims to modernize facilities
while preserving the spiritual essence of the pilgrimage, ensuring an
enriching and seamless experience for all devotees.
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