In a significant boost to pilgrim infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired the landmark 75th meeting of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) today at the Spiritual Growth Centre in Katra, unveiling a series of devotee-centric facilities near the Holy Cave and Parvati Bhawan. He also announced that five newly constructed temples in Reasi district will be opened to the public in July.
The high-level meeting was attended by prominent spiritual leaders and dignitaries, including Mahamandleshwar Swami Vishveshvaranand Giriji Maharaj, Sudha Murty, Dr. Ashok Bhan, and others, marking the first congregation of the newly constituted Board. The LG welcomed the members and lauded their role in safeguarding the spiritual and cultural sanctity of the Shrine.
New Pilgrim Amenities Unveiled
On the sidelines of the meeting, LG Sinha inaugurated several major pilgrim facilities, aimed at elevating the comfort, safety, and overall experience of lakhs of devotees who undertake the Vaishno Devi Yatra annually. Key inaugurations include:
- Battery Car Parking Stand at Bhawan, offering ease of access to elderly and specially-abled pilgrims.
- Outer Cave Shed and Laminated Glass Shelter for regulated movement in all weather conditions.
- Smart Lockers with RFID-enabled access, providing secure storage for belongings near the Bhawan Skywalk.
- Self-Service Kiosks/Digital Cash Registers, enhancing digital services on the Yatra route.
Reasi Temples to Open for Devotees
One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the approval to dedicate five newly constructed temples in Reasi district to the public in July 2025. These temples, built with attention to uniform architectural aesthetics, reflect the Shrine Board’s focus on heritage preservation and spiritual accessibility.
The Board also approved the construction of five additional temples, continuing the expansion of religious infrastructure across Jammu region.
Strategic Projects Reviewed
The Board deliberated on 21 critical agenda items, with particular focus on enhancing infrastructure and pilgrim services. Among the major developments:
- Exit Track Construction and Manokamna area remodelling at Bhawan.
- A new helipad at Katra and updates on the Village Hutt Helipad, being developed in collaboration with the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board and executed by the BRO. LG Sinha set a firm completion deadline of October 2025 for the delayed project.
- Widening of Sanjichhat-Bhawan Track and development of New Vaishnavi Bhawan and cottages near Katra Sports Stadium.
The Board also emphasized the integration of green technologies, including solar energy solutions and a 100% sewerage network plan for the Shrine area to ensure sustainability and cleanliness.
Boost to Safety & Education
Security around the Shrine received a major upgrade with the inauguration of an Integrated Command and Control Centre and seven Sub-Control Centres at strategic points. These centres are equipped with real-time surveillance and crowd monitoring tools.
On the educational front, LG Sinha inaugurated a new dormitory block at SMVD Gurukul, accommodating 32 more students, constructed at a cost of ₹71.82 lakh, strengthening the academic ecosystem supported by the Shrine Board.
Accountability and Engagement
The Yatri Feedback System will now be expanded to cover all services, with monthly monitoring, and pilgrims will be encouraged to share real-time feedback to improve service delivery. The LG also directed the CEO, SMVDSB, to engage volunteers for guiding pilgrims along the Yatra route and to identify vulnerable landslide-prone areas for immediate safety interventions.
A Vision Forward
With an ambitious agenda and renewed leadership, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board under the chairmanship of LG Manoj Sinha has reiterated its commitment to enhancing the spiritual, infrastructural, and social landscape of the region.
As the holy pilgrimage site continues to witness a surge in footfall, these comprehensive upgrades are expected to make the journey safer, smoother, and spiritually enriching for millions of devotees from across India and abroad.
