KATRA : The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has stepped up preparations for the forthcoming Shardiya Navratra, with Chief Executive Officer Sachin Kumar Vaishya on Tuesday chairing a high-level meeting with local authorities and security agencies to ensure a smooth and hassle-free pilgrimage.
The Navratra festival will be observed from October 11 to October 20, 2026, with a heavy influx of devotees expected at the Holy Shrine as well as the Katra base camp.
The meeting at the SMVDSB Central Office was attended by senior officials, including the Additional CEO, SSP Reasi, Commandant CRPF, Joint CEO, SDMs of Katra and Bhawan, SP Katra, senior Shrine Board officials, police officers and representatives of the Army, Fire and Emergency Services, SDRF, Intelligence Bureau and other allied agencies.
Reviewing the preparedness, the CEO stressed close coordination among all stakeholders, with particular focus on disaster management, firefighting arrangements and mock drills. He directed SDRF personnel to work closely with the Shrine Board’s Disaster Management Task Force to monitor vulnerable areas and strengthen crowd-management capabilities.
The CEO also directed authorities to ensure regular public announcements, joint beat monitoring, designated holding areas and adequate rescue equipment across all sectors. He called for strengthening the communication network through wireless sets and improved infrastructure to facilitate seamless coordination during the yatra.
Emphasising the role of the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC), Vaishya called for its effective utilisation for real-time monitoring, coordination and prompt response. He reiterated that possession of a valid RFID card is mandatory for every pilgrim, with additional handheld scanners and manpower to be deployed at key locations for verification.
The meeting also reviewed measures to strengthen the verification of Pithoo and Ponywallas, aimed at preventing impersonation and ensuring that only registered and genuine service providers operate along the pilgrimage track.
