KATRA: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) on Monday reviewed arrangements for the upcoming Chaitra Navratri festival beginning March 19, with a focus on ensuring smooth conduct of the pilgrimage to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine and managing the expected surge of devotees.
The review meeting, held at the Spiritual Growth Centre in Katra, was chaired by Chief Executive Officer Sachin Kumar Vaishya. Officials discussed key aspects of Yatra management including crowd regulation, security deployment, disaster preparedness and pilgrim facilitation along the entire route to the shrine.
During the meeting, special attention was given to decoration arrangements, with officials stressing the use of non-synthetic materials to reduce fire risks. Representatives from the Fire and Emergency Services were directed to conduct a comprehensive fire safety audit of the track and shrine area and ensure that fire-fighting vehicles and personnel remain fully operational at strategic locations during the festival.
Officials also directed strict enforcement of RFID-based Yatra cards, allowing only pilgrims with valid RFID cards to undertake the pilgrimage. Additional staff will be deployed at key checkpoints, while regular announcements will be made to guide pilgrims. During peak rush hours, alternate tracks will also be used to regulate movement and maintain smooth crowd flow.
The meeting further emphasized strict verification of Pithoos and Ponywallas, including routine documentation checks to prevent impersonation and ensure only authorized service providers operate along the route. Deployment of additional security personnel and the use of advanced wireless communication systems connected to the Integrated Command and Control Centre were also discussed to strengthen surveillance and coordination.
Authorities also reviewed measures to tackle traffic congestion caused by unauthorized parking in Katra, deciding to launch a special enforcement drive to tow away such vehicles. Arrangements for managing crowds at Katra Railway Station were also discussed in view of the expected increase in pilgrim arrivals during Navratras.
The Senior Superintendent of Police, Reasi, presented a detailed security plan, assuring foolproof arrangements. The plan includes deployment of Quick Response Teams (QRTs) and a multi-tier security grid involving police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and other security agencies.
The meeting was attended by senior officials of the Shrine Board, including the Additional CEO, Assistant CEOs, Tehsildars, SDPOs of Katra and Bhawan, officers from the CRPF and the Army, representatives of Fire and Emergency Services, and other allied agencies.
