Fortifying Faith: Security Measures for Chaitra Navratra at Vaishno Devi

A high-level meeting focused on ensuring security for the Chaitra Navratra festival at Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine was convened. CEO Anshul Garg emphasized collaboration among stakeholders as well as the use of modern gadgets and RFID cards to manage the surge in pilgrim numbers and ensure safety and efficiency.

A strategic meeting was convened on Tuesday to evaluate security and arrangements for the upcoming nine-day Chaitra Navratra festival at the renowned Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, located on Trikuta hills in Jammu and Kashmir. The festival is set to begin on March 30.

Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, led a comprehensive review session at the base camp in Katra, focusing on the need for integrated efforts by all stakeholders and security agencies. The aim is to handle the anticipated increase in pilgrim numbers during the festival, ensuring devotees have a seamless and secure pilgrimage experience.

Among those present at the meeting were senior officials from police, civil, CRPF, Army, shrine board, and intelligence agencies. Garg stressed the importance of a robust security framework across key areas of the shrine, enhanced by real-time monitoring via CCTV cameras. These measures, alongside the use of RFID cards for pilgrims, are geared towards maintaining safety and efficiency throughout the pilgrimage.

(With inputs from agencies.)