LG Sinha chairs SMVDSB meeting, pilgrim services in focus

Srinagar, Apr 03: In a significant development, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired the 72nd Board meeting of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) at Raj Bhawan. Attended by prominent members including MahamandleshwarShri Swami VishveshvaranandGirijiMaharaj and various officials, the meeting focused on reviewing past decisions and discussing pivotal aspects of pilgrim facilitation.
A total of 27 agenda items were ratified and given in-principle approval to augment pilgrim services and ensure the smooth functioning of the Board. Major decisions included the early start of heli-service in the Jammu-Panchhi sector and the establishment of a Medical College at Kakryal. Additionally, construction projects aimed at enhancing capacities in various sectors were greenlit.
Direct helicopter service between Jammu Airport and Panchhi Helipad on the Shrine track was highlighted as a move to bolster emergency response capabilities and enhance the pilgrimage experience for devotees.
The Lt. Governor, also the Chairman of SMVDSB, stressed the timely completion of ongoing projects for the ease of pilgrimage. Important projects such as the ‘New VaishnaviBhawan at the shrine’ and ‘Staff Quarters at Banganga’ were reviewed for progress.
The Board acknowledged initiatives such as the facade lighting project to enhance aesthetics at Bhawan, Adhkuwari, and DarshaniDeodi, contributing to spiritual enlightenment.
New projects approved by the Board included ‘Construction of Exit Track at Bhawan’ and ‘Remodeling of Manokamna Area.’ The CEO’s efforts towards developing temples in and around Katra were commended, with the Lt. Governor urging for the expansion of this initiative to district Reasi.
The Board approved an ‘Annual Green Plan’ for 2024-25, emphasizing environmental conservation efforts and suggesting the initiation of aerial surveys and seed dispersal through helicopters for Trikuta Hills’ environmental vibrancy.
Lt. Governor emphasised the need for a robust pilgrim-feedback mechanism to continuously improve services provided by the Board.
Earlier, CEO AnshulGarg presented the current status of varied activities and actions taken for implementing decisions from previous meetings.
This meeting marks a significant stride towards enhancing pilgrimage services and infrastructure at the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.