Free Meals Arranged for Pilgrims Stranded at Katra Due to Vaishno Devi Shrine Closure

Temporary Suspension of Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage

In Jammu, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has organized free meals for pilgrims stranded at the base camp in Katra following the temporary suspension of the pilgrimage to the Vaishno Devi Bhawan, located on the Trikuta Mountain in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. An official provided this update on Monday.

The pilgrimage was halted due to a warning from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) regarding moderate to heavy rainfall expected until July 23, coupled with adverse weather conditions.

Support for Stranded Pilgrims

A spokesperson for the Shrine Board stated, "Comprehensive arrangements have been made to provide free meal services for the pilgrims stranded in Katra, ensuring their accommodation and other essential needs are adequately addressed."

Under the directives of the Lieutenant Governor and Chairman of the Shrine Board, Manoj Sinha, the board has mobilized all resources to assist affected pilgrims in every possible way.

The spokesperson further mentioned that free meals are being provided at the Niharika complex, located near the Katra bus stand, where stranded pilgrims can receive complimentary food and necessary assistance from Shrine Board officials.

Continuous Updates and Coordination

Additionally, the Shrine Board is continuously disseminating updates regarding the current weather conditions and the status of the pilgrimage through various communication channels, ensuring that pilgrims can stay informed.

The spokesperson noted that the Shrine Board is coordinating with district administration and other relevant agencies to monitor the situation around the clock.

They urged pilgrims to remain calm and to rely solely on the official advisories and updates issued by the board.