Jammu (NVI): Around 77.50 lakh devotees performed pilgrimage this year to Vaishno Devi Shrine where facilities and surveillance systems are being upgraded.
Among the works in progress are installation of CCTV Surveillance System on the entire track from Darshani Deodi to the Vaishno Devi Shrine situated in the Trikuta mountains in Jammu Division, which will be implemented on turn-key basis.
A mega Durga Bhawan is also being constructed for accommodating nearly 4000 pilgrims at Bhawan area and Inlet Queue management system is being installed at Bhawan, Exit Track at Bhawan, and Queue Management system at Bhairon Ji.
Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor G C Murmu directed the newly-appointed CEO of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) Ramesh Kumar to ensure best ‘langar’ facilities and usage of environment-friendly material in ‘Bhojnalayas’ (eateries).
The directive came when Kumar called on the Lt Governor.
The Lt Governor, while reviewing the progress of upgradation of wayside facilities along the tracks, called for renewed focus on sanitation and maintenance of impeccable hygienic conditions in and around the ‘Bhojanalayas’.
While briefing about the functioning of the Bhawan-Bhairon passenger ropeway, the CEO informed the Lt Governor that as many as 20.20 lakh pilgrims have availed the facility of this hi-tech ropeway which was commissioned last year and has completed one year of its successful operation.
Murmu directed the CEO to conduct a technical safety and fire audit of the ropeway and devise a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the inspection of the said ropeway periodically to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims.
The Lt Governor was further informed that 162 children are presently under training at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Gurukul. The Lt Governor stressed on imparting the best possible training to the children with special focus on practical training and employment awareness.
