New Guidelines for Pilgrims Visiting Vaishno Devi Shrine Ahead of New Year

Mandatory Registration for Pilgrims

In anticipation of large crowds for the New Year celebrations, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has issued new guidelines emphasizing that all pilgrims traveling to Katra must register for their journey. The Shrine Board clarified that the first and foremost step for pilgrims upon arriving in Katra is to complete their travel registration at the Passenger Registration Counter (YRC) located near the Katra bus stand. This registration process is exclusively managed by the Shrine Board, which is the only authorized body to issue travel registrations. No private or public agencies are permitted to register pilgrims.

Travel Card Validity and Safety Measures

According to the Shrine Board, pilgrims must commence their journey within 12 hours of receiving their RFID travel card and are required to return to the base camp in Katra within 24 hours after completing their pilgrimage. Previously, the validity of the RFID card was limited to the start of the journey, but now a completion deadline has been established to enhance crowd management. The administration noted a significant increase in the number of pilgrims as the New Year approaches, with heavy crowds typically gathering in Katra and the shrine area three to four days prior to the New Year. This decision aims to ensure the safety of pilgrims and prevent overcrowding and stampede situations.

Extended Registration Hours and Security Arrangements

The Shrine Board has instructed officials and staff at the registration centers to continuously inform pilgrims about the new regulations. These orders apply equally to all modes of travel, including on foot, by helicopter, battery car, horse, and porter services. To facilitate pilgrims, the registration center near Katra railway station will now provide RFID cards until midnight, an extension from the previous 10 PM cutoff. Additionally, passengers arriving on late-night trains can obtain their 24-hour valid RFID cards at the entrance of the Darshan Deori.

Enhanced Security Measures for the New Year Pilgrimage

A security meeting was also convened, where security agencies outlined a multi-layered security arrangement involving police, CRPF, and Shrine Board security teams. Quick Response Teams (QRT) and advanced surveillance equipment have been deployed for real-time monitoring. A comprehensive, technology-driven security plan has been implemented at the sacred site of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi to ensure the smooth and safe operation of the annual New Year pilgrimage, given the anticipated influx of devotees. This information was shared by the Inspector General of Police for the Jammu zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, during his visit to Katra.

CCTV Surveillance and Special Train Services

Addressing the media, the IGP mentioned that a detailed multi-layered security system has been activated along the pilgrimage route, base camp, and surrounding areas. Over 550 CCTV cameras have been installed at key locations along the pilgrimage path, providing continuous monitoring. The live feeds from these cameras are monitored around the clock by a centralized command and control center, facilitating quick detection and response to any emergencies. In light of the expected heavy crowds at the Vaishno Devi cave temple during the New Year, the rail department has initiated special train services between Katra and New Delhi from December 27 to January 2 to ensure smooth travel for pilgrims. Although the number of pilgrims this year is lower than last year, a significant increase is anticipated on New Year's Eve.