Big news for devotees going to Mata Vaishno Devi, new advisory issued
National Desk: A major update has emerged from Katra for pilgrims planning to visit the Mata Vaishno Devi Temple. According to reports, the pilgrimage has been temporarily suspended and counters issuing new travel slips (registrations) have been closed.
The journey had to be stopped as the crowd increased
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has advised pilgrims to stay at their safe stopping points and not attempt to proceed further. Devotees' enthusiasm remains undiminished even after Chaitra Navratri, with millions of devotees making the pilgrimage from Katra to Bhawan.
Heavy crowds on weekends
A devotional atmosphere prevailed in the Bhawan complex, the Yatra route, and Katra, with chants of "Jai Mata Di" echoing throughout. The number of pilgrims steadily increased on Saturday and Sunday, putting pressure on the administration and security forces. Due to the large crowds on Sunday evening, the Yatra was temporarily halted to avoid any untoward incident.
When will the journey begin?
The news of relief for pilgrims is that the pilgrimage will resume on Monday (March 30) morning. RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) cards will also be issued that morning.
Long lines formed throughout the day
Long queues of pilgrims were seen at registration counters throughout the day on Sunday. Devotees also lined up for security checks at the "Darshan Deori," the entry point to the pilgrimage site. Devotees were escorted into the Bhavan complex for darshan in an orderly manner, with the Shrine Board and security forces paying close attention to line management.
Clear weather, tight security
Due to clear weather, pilgrims faced no significant difficulties during the pilgrimage. Police and security forces remained deployed along the pilgrimage routes throughout the day, helping with crowd control and handling any emergencies.
Important advice for devotees
At present, the administration has appealed to the devotees to follow the instructions and maintain patience till the yatra resumes, so that the safety of everyone can be ensured.
