SRINAGAR: The 73rd meeting of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) took place under the chairmanship of Lt Governor Shri Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhawan. The meeting focused on several key decisions aimed at enhancing the services provided to pilgrims visiting the shrine, a DIPR statement said.
One of the significant decisions was the approval of a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and THDC India Limited (THDCIL) to address the risks of landslides and rockfalls along the Yatra route between Adhkuwari and Bhawan. This collaboration aims to safeguard pilgrims by mitigating hazards associated with unstable slopes.
The board also approved a series of infrastructure improvements to tackle congestion at the Battery Car Point near Bhawan. A dedicated parking facility for Battery Cars will be developed on a three-storey structure opposite Parvati Bhawan, easing traffic flow and enhancing the area’s atmosphere. Additionally, the Master Plan for the Sanjichhat Area was given the green light, which will focus on improving key sectors such as accommodations, toilets, water points, food outlets, and queue management.
In a move to improve the overall pilgrimage experience, the Board endorsed the revamping of lighting at the facade of the old Gufa in the Atka area, and inside the three caves and sanctum sanctorum, through LED and optic fibre lighting. This initiative aims to elevate the shrine’s aesthetics and ambiance.
The Board also gave approval for an additional Grant-in-Aid for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Charitable Society to support the operation of peripheral institutions, including the Medical College, Hospital, Gurukul, Sports Complex, and College of Nursing, all managed by the Society.
Other decisions included the development of a new Exit Track from Durga Bhawan to Manokamna, construction of temples in Reasi district, and the ongoing progress of the Kakryal Medical College. The meeting concluded with an emphasis on the timely completion of various ongoing projects aimed at improving the pilgrimage infrastructure, such as the New Vaishnavi Bhawan, Covered Holding Area at Adhkuwari, and the Queue Complex at Darshani Deodi.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated several pilgrims-centric facilities, including the Yatri Facilitation Centre at Katra Railway Station and the Shubhra Bhawan at Banganga. Additionally, he laid the e-foundation stone for the new Exit Track at Bhawan and launched several digital initiatives, including an ERP system and the AI-enabled Chatbot “Shakti” on the Shrine Board’s website. These efforts reflect the Board’s continued commitment to enhancing services and transparency for the convenience of pilgrims.
