Excelsior Correspondent
KATRA, Dec 23: In view of the anticipated heavy influx of pilgrims during the New Year–2026, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) today reviewed comprehensive arrangements to ensure a safe, smooth and hassle-free pilgrimage for devotees.
The review meeting was presided over by Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB. The meeting was attended by senior officers of the Shrine Board, District Administration, representatives of security agencies and other key stakeholders.
During the meeting, the CEO directed the concerned authorities to further strengthen Yatra management and security measures, particularly along the track and at the Bhawan. Emphasis was laid on strict regulation of the Yatra through RFID-based access control. The CEO also instructed for the deployment of additional handheld RFID scanners and adequate manpower at key checkpoints to avoid any lapses.
The CEO was informed that a comprehensive training programme has been conducted at the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC), SGC Katra. Accordingly, joint round-the-clock monitoring is being undertaken, with special focus on high-footfall and congested locations, to ensure real-time surveillance, prompt response and enhanced situational awareness.
The representative of the Fire and Emergency Services was tasked with deploying firefighting vehicles at strategic points along the track and conducting a comprehensive fire safety audit of the Shrine area.
The CEO also emphasized converting the existing Bose sound system installed along the track into a fully functional Public Address System to facilitate timely dissemination of important announcements. Additionally, the concerned agencies were directed to ensure proper verification of individuals employed in private establishments and service operators on the track. Special emphasis was laid on addressing traffic bottlenecks caused by unauthorized parking, particularly in the Banganga area and the Tarakote Marg.
Security agencies briefed the meeting on the multi-tier security grid in place, comprising personnel from the Police, CRPF and Shrine Board security, supported by Quick Response Teams (QRTs) for swift action. The deployment of advanced surveillance tools for real-time threat assessment was also highlighted.
The meeting was attended by the Addl CEO, SMVDSB; SSP, Reasi; Jt CEO, SMVDSB; SDM, Katra and Bhawan; SP, Katra; Commandant, CRPF; Asstt. CEOs, SMVDSB; SDPOs, Katra and Bhawan; ACF, SMVDSB; and representatives of the Fire and Emergency Services and other allied agencies.
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