Excelsior Correspondent
KATRA, June 4: Chamber of Tourism Trade & Industry Katra (CTTIK) submitted a detailed representation to Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Chief Executive Officer, SMVD Shrine Board Katra seeking several important initiatives aimed at enhancing pilgrim convenience and promoting the welfare of the local population of Katra.
Raj Kumar Padha, president CTTIK, strongly advocated for the establishment of an Amarnath Yatra Facilitation Centre at Katra. The representation pointed out that a large number of devotees undertaking Amarnath Yatra also pass through Katra before proceeding towards the holy cave shrine. At present due to the absence of dedicated facilitation and registration services for the Amarnath Yatra at Katra, pilgrims are compelled to travel back to Jammu to complete various formalities and make onward travel arrangements. The Chamber emphasized that the establishment of an Amarnath Yatra Facilitation Centre at Katra has become both relevant and necessary.
Atul Sharma Secretary CTTIK, suggested that services relating to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra and Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra be integrated and coordinated to ensure a seamless pilgrimage experience. The Chamber stated that such a facility would not only greatly benefit pilgrims but would also contribute significantly to the local economy by increasing tourist stay, business activity and employment opportunities in Katra.
As part of its proposals for community welfare the Chamber also sought the introduction of a special concession scheme for the permanent residents of Katra at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital Kakryal.
Neelam Singh, executive member CTTIK, requested the Shrine Board to consider providing educational concessions for the children of Katra at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University. The proposal includes reservation of seats and subsidized tuition fees for local students in various academic programmes, particularly those where seats often remain vacant.
During the meeting Sachin Kumar Vaishya appreciated the constructive suggestions put forth by CTTIK and expressed his willingness to take up these initiatives at the appropriate level for their early consideration and addressal. He also assured the delegation of his full cooperation and support towards various pilgrim welfare initiatives and efforts aimed at the promotion of pilgrimage tourism in the region.
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