Vaishno Devi Shrine Board reviews security, operational preparedness

With the onset of the summer holidays in many states across the country, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMDSB) which is anticipating a large number of devotees at the Holy Shrine over the next couple of months is gearing up with the foolproof measures to ensure the best pilgrimage experience to the visiting devotees.

The Chief Executive Officer Anshul Garg, stated that as summer holidays are inches closer in the country and the Shrine being a tourist destination is expecting a heavy influx of devotees at the Holy Shrine besides at the base camp Katra.

He further said that security agencies deployed at all entry points should remain more vigilant so that no ‘yatri’ without frisking and registration enters the track for their pilgrimage. He further stressed the security agencies and other stakeholders upon verification and census of pony porters besides any suspicious element on the track.

In addition, the Chief Executive Officer also reviewed in detail various components of the Disaster Management measures including firefighting preparedness to ensure a quick and effective response from all stakeholders in the wake of any emergent situation. Besides, directed regular announcements for the decongestion of the crowd on the track.

In the meeting, SSP, Jammu and Kashmir Police highlighted major challenges for the deployed security forces in the coming days for managing the expected influx of pilgrims.