Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), has urged all pilgrims to wear valid RFID cards before beginning their journey to the Holy Cave Shrine during the upcoming Chaitra Navratri. This directive aims to streamline access and enhance security during the expected surge in pilgrim traffic.
During a review of operational preparedness at the Spiritual Growth Centre in Katra, Garg emphasized the importance of collaboration between all stakeholders and security agencies to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage. He highlighted the following key measures:
- Enhanced Security:
- A robust security grid will be implemented across all key sectors of the Shrine.
- Real-time CCTV surveillance will monitor the entire route from Katra to Bhawan.
- Modern security gadgets, including X-ray baggage scanners, metal detectors, and under-vehicle search mirrors, will be deployed.
- Verification and census of pony porters will be conducted to enhance security on the track.
- Pilgrim Safety and Yatra Regulation:
- Strict adherence to RFID card usage is mandated for all pilgrims.
- Crowd management strategies will be implemented, including monitoring vulnerable areas and issuing alerts.
- Joint stakeholder teams will conduct regular announcements and beat monitoring at Bhawan to manage congestion.
- Essential Amenities and Services:
- Ensuring the availability of clean drinking water, uninterrupted power supply, and sanitation facilities.
- Regulation of vehicle traffic on the track.
- 24/7 emergency medical services will be provided.
- Disaster Management:
- Comprehensive disaster management measures, including firefighting and crowd management protocols, will be enforced.
- The Disaster Management Task Force (DMTF) will monitor vulnerable areas.
- Security Agency Preparedness:
- Security agencies, including the police, CRPF, and paramilitary forces, have presented detailed security plans, including Quick Response Teams (QRTs) and a multi-tier security grid, to address potential challenges posed by the increased pilgrim influx.
- Steps are being taken to prevent overcharging of fares at Katra.
The SMVDSB is committed to ensuring a safe, secure, and peaceful pilgrimage experience for all devotees during the Chaitra Navratri festival.
