Shiv Sena urges limited Panchhi Heli service to preserve sanctity of MVD Yatra

Jammu, Apr 08: The Shiv Sena UBT Jammu-Kashmir unit has expressed its appreciation for the announcement of commencing Panchhi Heli Service from Jammu Airport to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan starting from the first Holy Chaitra Navratri (April 09, 2024). However, the party has urged to keep this service limited.
It also raised demands for providing registration facilities for the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra at Jammu Railway Station and promoting the restoration of the traditional form of the Yatra.
During a press conference held on Monday at the party’s state office, state chief Manish Sahni emphasized that while the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has been diligently providing facilities to devotees, it is crucial to preserve the sanctity of the Yatra. While welcoming steps such as the construction of the skywalk and health ATM, Sahni expressed concern over potential alterations to the traditional form of the pilgrimage.
Sahni highlighted that the expansion of road and rail routes has already affected the traditional route of the Yatra, with certain significant darshans being separated from the travel route. Direct helicopter services from Jammu to Himkoti risk further altering the pilgrimage experience, potentially depriving devotees of visiting historical temples and affecting the economy of Jammu, particularly those in the hospitality and transportation sectors.
The Shiv Sena UBT Jammu-Kashmir unit urged the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board and the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department to take concrete steps to promote and restore the mythological form of the Yatra. Additionally, they demanded the facility of Yatra registration at Jammu Railway Station.
Sahni disclosed that a written request has been made to meet with the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, who also serves as the Chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, to discuss these demands. Women Wing President Meenakshi Chhibber, General Secretary Vikas Bakshi, Kamghar Wing President Raj Singh, and Secretary Rakesh Handa were also present during the press conference.