Friday, October 4, 2024 The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has taken a significant step to manage the anticipated surge of devotees during the Navratri festival by introducing eight new registration counters at Katra Station. This move is aimed at ensuring a smoother and more efficient registration process for pilgrims while bolstering security measures for the festival period, which sees a massive influx of visitors. CEO Anshul Garg announced that the new counters will be operational from 5 AM, providing pilgrims with added convenience upon their arrival.
With this addition, the total number of registration points has increased to 47, offering devotees more options to register before embarking on their spiritual journey to the shrine. To enhance security, SMVDSB has also introduced mandatory RFID cards for all pilgrims. These cards will help track the movement of devotees, ensuring better crowd control and management.
CEO Garg stressed the significance of these security upgrades, which include deploying additional security forces and quick response teams to maintain the safety and well-being of pilgrims throughout the Navratri festivities. During a recent meeting chaired by CEO Garg in Katra, a collaborative effort with local authorities and security agencies was discussed to strengthen security protocols. Among the special measures being implemented are the use of drones and CCTV cameras along the pilgrimage route and within the shrine area for real-time surve.