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The upcoming Delhi-Srinagar train connectivity is set to significantly enhance pilgrimage access to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, according to Anshul Garg, CEO of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB). A pilgrim facilitation centre has been established at Katra railway station, allowing visitors to complete their registration for the pilgrimage conveniently upon arrival. Garg, speaking at the 76th Republic Day celebration at the Shrine Boards Sports Complex in Katra, outlined plans to transform Katra into a regional hub. These plans include several key developments, such as the construction of four temples along the Trikuta Hills Parikrama Marg and the development of a helipad to improve connectivity to the Shiv Khori Shrine. The goal is to boost tourism in the region. Garg emphasized the importance of the new rail link, stating that it will make Katra—a key base for pilgrims visiting the shrine—a vital transit point, further boosting pilgrimage traffic to the holy site. The specially-designed Vande Bharat Express train completed its maiden trial run on January 25 on the newly completed Katra-Srinagar section, marking the culmination of the long-awaited project to connect the Kashmir valley with the rest of the country via rail. In response to this development, the Shrine Board has operationalized the yatri facilitation centre at Katra Railway Station, which allows pilgrims to register for the yatra directly at the station, thereby improving their pilgrimage experience. The shrine has witnessed a consistent increase in pilgrims, with annual visits surpassing 90 lakh for the third consecutive year. Garg highlighted several ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at improving the pilgrimage experience. These include a ?20 crore Darshani Deodi Queue Complex to accommodate 1,500 devotees, as well as upgrades to the Banganga sector, such as the Shubhra Bhawan, enhanced drainage systems, and a proposed Laser Light and Sound project. Additionally, collaborative initiatives with the central government are underway to rejuvenate the Banganga rivulet, improving both its ecology and aesthetics. A ?25 crore exit track, inspired by a skywalk design, is being developed to ease congestion in the Bhawan area. New facilities, including battery car parking, an Adhkuwari holding area, AI-based CCTV cameras, and a command control centre, will be introduced during the upcoming Chaitra Navratras to further improve the pilgrimage experience. The CEO also announced that residents of Katra town and the surrounding 41 villages will be granted priority darshan at the shrine with Aadhaar card as proof of address. |
