SRINAGAR: The tension between India and Pakistan has impacted the pilgrimage to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi (SMVD) shrine. However, following the recent ceasefire and reduction in hostilities, devotees are gradually returning to the pilgrimage site, although the numbers remain modest.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDB) has announced several measures to support pilgrims, including free Aarti Darshan and accommodation.
According to figures, on May 6, a total of 12,917 pilgrims arrived from across the country.
On May 7, which coincided with India’s Operation Sindoor, 12,760 devotees visited Katra for darshan. The number declined in the following days: 8,670 on May 8; 3,962 on May 9; 1,352 on May 10; 1,303 on May 11; 1,658 on May 12; and 2,808 on May 13. By 3:00 pm on May 14, approximately 3,300 devotees had registered and departed for Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan, with more continuing to arrive.
With the easing of tensions, devotees are returning to the pilgrimage, supported by the Shrine Board’s efforts to provide free services from the base camp at Katra to the Bhawan. These steps aim to encourage greater participation.
Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer of the SMVDB, said the number of pilgrims is increasing as the situation improves. “As the security situation gets better, the number of devotees is also rising. Jammu Airport has resumed operations, including civilian flights and helicopter services,” he said. “We are facilitating air travel through both online bookings and counters. All services are being maintained to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience. We expect the numbers to grow in the coming days.”
Garg added that comprehensive security arrangements are in place along the route from Katra to the Bhawan, under the supervision of the police and CRPF. CCTV surveillance systems and the Integrated Command and Control Centre are operational.
Based on joint security reviews, he said, measures are being taken to ensure a safe environment for all pilgrims. To support participation during the current period of lower attendance, the board is offering free walk-in services for Garbhjoon Aarti and Attaka Aarti on a first-come, first-served basis.
“The safety of pilgrims remains a priority,” Garg said. “Security arrangements are robust across Katra and the entire route. We are committed to providing a secure environment so that devotees can undertake the pilgrimage without concern.”
Locals said that while early morning and evening Aarti sessions see some activity, daytime hours remain quiet. Many shops on the Bhawan road and in Katra are closed due to reduced footfall. The decline in visitors has affected local businesses, though the community hopes for an increase in pilgrims. (KNO)
