The annual pilgrimage to the Holy Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi restarted after a week-long pause, delighting numerous devotees gathered in Katra. More than 10,000 pilgrims queued up at Counter No. 2 for RFID cards before embarking on the trek to the revered shrine. Despite the large turnout, authorities from Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF efficiently managed the crowds, ensuring a smooth registration process.
Light rain accompanied the devotees in Katra, enhancing the pleasant weather. Security personnel, undeterred by the rain, maintained order and assisted pilgrims as chants of “Jai Mata Di” filled the air. Many pilgrims expressed joy at being able to commence their sacred journey after days of uncertainty.
Pilgrims shared their happiness, with one devotee from Haryana expressing gratitude for the opportunity to visit Mata Rani’s shrine after a long wait. Another pilgrim described the visit as unforgettable, marking it as the most memorable trip of their life. A third devotee, who had been in Katra for days, expressed surprise and gratitude for the resumption of the pilgrimage.
The reopening of the pilgrimage has reignited enthusiasm among devotees stranded in Katra during the suspension. With authorities ensuring heightened security and crowd management, thousands are now heading towards the shrine for a safe pilgrimage experience. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, a significant pilgrimage site in India, attracts millions of devotees annually. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure a smooth pilgrimage in the upcoming days.
