Excelsior Correspondent
KATRA, Jan 31: Keeping with the tradition of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board for pilgrim welfare, Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer today announced a series of new initiatives aimed at enhancing pilgrim services.
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One of the key announcements was the release of the online helicopter quota for senior citizens and specially-abled pilgrims, which will be available from February 1, 2025 on the board’s official website www.maavaishnodevi.org.
Talking to the media persons, CEO said this initiative comes in response to the long-standing demand from the Senior Citizen Forum, which had recently met with a high-level committee to request a separate helicopter booking quota. Recently a similar quota was introduced for battery car bookings which received an overwhelming response over the last few months.
Additionally, he added, a permanent free tea Langar Seva has been introduced in the Yatra Facilitation centre at Katra Railway Station, ensuring that pilgrims arriving at the town receive warm welcome and refreshments. In an effort to provide a taste of local cuisine, Kadhi-Chawal has been added to the menu of the free langars already established at Adhkuwari and Bhairon Ji.
Further, the CEO informed that Hawan Poojan facility is now available at Adhkuwari Yagyashala as well, enhancing the spiritual offerings of the pilgrimage. Infrastructure improvements remain a major focus, with extensive upgradation of the traditional Banganga track including a queue complex at Darshani Deodi capable of accommodating 1,500 pilgrims at a time, track widening, installation of ornamental street lights and a drainage system upgrade covering a 2.5 km track from Darshani Deodi to Charanpaduka. Additional facilities are also being provided in this sector at the recently inaugurated Shubra Bhawan to accommodate devotees. In response to increasing footfall, a covered holding area at Adhkuwari is being set up for those desirous of Darshan at the holy Garbjoon cave.
Earlier, on the eve of Republic day, the Shrine Board had announced Priority Darshan for local residents on the basis of Aadhar card in recognition of their deep connection with the shrine.
The CEO further emphasized that the Shrine Board remains dedicated to continuously enhancing pilgrim services, making the spiritual journey smoother, more inclusive, and aligned with the modern infrastructural facilities.
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