Katra, Oct 07: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) Anshul Garg,, presided over a joint meeting at the Spiritual Growth Centre, Katra, with security agencies and local authorities to assess the security and operational preparedness of the shrine area ahead of the Shardiya Navratra, scheduled to be held from October 15 to 23, 2023.
The meeting, attended by key officials including Addl. Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB; SSP, JKP, Reasi; Commandant, CRPF; Jt. Chief Executive Officers, SMVDSB; SP, Katra; Sub Divisional Magistrate, Bhawan & Katra; Dy. CEOs; Asstt. CEO, SMVDSB; SDPO Katra, and officers from Army, IB, CID, Fire Services, SMVDSB, and other intelligence agencies, aimed to review the preparations for the upcoming Navratra festival.
CEO Anshul Garg emphasized the proximity of the Navratras and the expected heavy influx of devotees at the Holy Shrine and the base camp Katra. He stressed the need for synergy between all stakeholders during the Navratras Festival and called for coordinated efforts to ensure a hassle-free pilgrimage experience.
Addressing the smooth regulation of the Yatra in line with the directions of the Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT), the CEO highlighted the deployment of security personnel and the use of CCTVs along the route from Bhawan to Katra. He emphasized the importance of pilgrims wearing valid RFID cards linked to various facilities during the Yatra, with strict enforcement of this requirement.
The CEO directed SDM, Katra, to conduct a verification and census of pony porters to prevent any suspicious elements on the track. He emphasized extensive checking at various points in Katra to curb overcharging and ensure fair fare practices. Disaster management measures, including fire fighting preparedness, were reviewed in detail, with directives issued for efficient crowd management and emergency response.
Various directives were issued, addressing vehicle movement, sanitation, drinking water arrangements, and illumination in Katra town. A special drive to remove unauthorized vehicles causing traffic congestion was emphasized. Drones were to be deployed for real-time monitoring, and additional security forces were to be stationed in Katra and along the route to Bhawan, ensuring foolproof security and effective Yatra management.
SSP Reasi and Commandant, CRPF, presented a comprehensive security plan, outlining the deployment of QRTs and a multi-tier security grid involving police, CRPF, and other paramilitary forces for the Navratra period.
