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LG Manoj Sinha chairs SMVD Shrine Board Meeting at Jammu

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 18(NVI): Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today presided over the 73rd meeting of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) at Raj Bhawan, where he launched several significant initiatives aimed at improving the overall experience for pilgrims.

An official statement said that the meeting, attended by key board members and senior officials, saw the dedication of two major pilgrim-centric facilities—the ‘Shubhra Bhawan’ Yatri Facilitation cum Staff Accommodation Complex at Banganga and the Yatri Facilitation Centre at the Railway Station in Katra. These facilities are designed to provide enhanced comfort and convenience for pilgrims during their visit.

In a bid to reduce congestion around the Bhawan area, Shri Sinha also laid the e-foundation stone for a new Exit Track. This new track is part of a broader plan to decongest the Bhawan area, making the pilgrimage smoother and more manageable for thousands of visitors. Additionally, the Lieutenant Governor launched several digital initiatives, including the implementation of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system and the introduction of an AI-powered Chatbot “Shakti” on the official Shrine Board website, which is expected to provide real-time support and information to pilgrims.

During the meeting, a comprehensive review was conducted on the progress of various ongoing and upcoming projects. The Board approved several new plans aimed at addressing safety, infrastructure, and the overall pilgrim experience. One of the key approvals was the tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Shrine Board, the Geological Survey of India (GSI), and THDC India Limited (THDCIL). This collaboration is focused on identifying and treating slopes vulnerable to landslides and rockfalls along the Yatra route, ensuring the safety of pilgrims as they navigate the mountainous terrain.

Addressing the persistent issue of congestion near the Battery Car Point at Bhawan, the Board approved the construction of a dedicated parking facility for Battery Cars, which will be located opposite Parvati Bhawan, atop a three-story structure. This infrastructure development is expected to streamline the movement of pilgrims and reduce crowding in the area.

The meeting also reviewed ongoing efforts to improve facilities across various sectors, including the development of a new Vaishnavi Bhawan at Bhawan, the expansion of accommodation at Sanjichhat, the creation of holding areas, and the construction of a Queue Complex at Darshani Deodi, Banganga, and Katra. A Master Plan for the Sanjichhat area was approved, addressing critical sectors such as accommodation, food points, water facilities, toilets, and queue management, all aimed at enhancing the pilgrim experience.

In addition to these developments, the Board discussed various ongoing health and safety projects, such as the establishment of a Hospital, University, and Medical College in Kakryal, which are part of the broader vision for the region’s sustainable growth and infrastructure development.

One of the noteworthy decisions was the approval of a façade lighting project, which will enhance the aesthetic appeal and ambiance of the Shrine. This will involve revamping the lighting at the façade of the old Gufa in the Atka area, the three caves, and the sanctum sanctorum using modern LED and optic fiber lighting techniques.

The meeting also addressed the need for educational support for employees associated with the Shrine Board’s peripheral institutions, including the Medical College, Hospital, and other educational facilities in the Kakryal area. The CEO of the Shrine Board was directed to explore modalities to meet the educational needs of these employees.

A key highlight of the meeting was the Board’s approval of an additional Grant-in-Aid for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Charitable Society, which will support the operations of peripheral institutions like the Medical College, Nursing College, Gurukul, Sports Complex, and College of Nursing.

Earlier in the meeting, Anshul Garg, CEO of the SMVDSB, gave a detailed presentation on the status of various ongoing projects, the decisions taken in previous meetings. (News Vibes of India)

Eyes on the roads: E-Challan System now active in Srinagar, says SSP Traffic Muzaffar Shah

File Photo : SSP Traffic City (Srinagar) Muazafar Shah

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 18(NVI): In a significant move aimed at enhancing road safety and curbing traffic violations, the E-Challan system has been officially activated in Srinagar today.

SSP Traffic Srinagar Muzaffar Shah said that this digital enforcement tool will ensure greater accountability for road users, with violations now being captured electronically for fines and penalties.

The introduction of the E-Challan system is part of the ongoing efforts to improve traffic management and discipline in Srinagar, a city that has long struggled with traffic congestion and reckless driving. The system will track violations in real-time through cameras and automated systems, making it more efficient and less prone to human error.

SSP Shah said that the E-Challan system aims to foster a more disciplined and law-abiding driving culture. He also warned motorists to be extra cautious on the roads, as strict enforcement would follow and violators would face penalties without exceptions. With this initiative, authorities hope to curb common offenses such as speeding, illegal parking and other violations that compromise public safety.

This shift to a digital approach represents a key step towards modernizing traffic management in Srinagar and is expected to yield better results in terms of road safety, reducing accidents, and making the city’s roads safer for both drivers and pedestrians. (News Vibes of India)

Mehbooba Mufti warns of environmental disaster, urges CM to act against Satellite Townships

File Photo : Former CM J&K Mehbooba Mufti

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 18 (NVI): Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti today raised an alarm over the proposed satellite townships in Jammu and Kashmir, calling them a potential environmental catastrophe.

She urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to act swiftly and halt the large-scale diversion of agricultural land for these projects, which she claims could jeopardize the Kashmir’s fragile ecological balance and agricultural economy.

Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, Mehbooba highlighted that nearly 1,20,000 kanals of fertile agricultural land are being sacrificed to pave the way for these townships. She said that the Chief Minister has the power to intervene in this matter and must do so urgently. “There are issues beyond Omar Abdullah’s control, but this is something that is entirely within his hands. At the very least, he can take action here,” she said.

Mehbooba expressed concern over the lack of transparency and clarity surrounding these projects. She demanded answers about the purpose of the townships and their potential beneficiaries. “We need to know whether Srinagar is being decongested and its residents resettled in these townships, or if the townships are meant to bring in outsiders to settle here,” she remarked, hinting at fears of demographic shifts in the region.

The PDP chief further criticized the government’s disregard for the environmental and agricultural repercussions of the project. “This is not just about land—it’s about livelihoods, food security, and the environment. Turning fertile farmland into concrete jungles will have irreversible consequences,” she cautioned.

The proposed satellite townships have already sparked debates, with environmentalists, activists, and political groups warning of their far-reaching impact on the region’s ecology. Mehbooba’s statement adds to the growing chorus of voices demanding a re-evaluation of the project and greater accountability from the government.

As the issue continues to brew, Mehbooba’s warning serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between development and sustainability in Jammu and Kashmir—a balance that, she argues, is being dangerously tilted in the wrong direction (News Vibes of India)

Balochistan saw 98 cases of enforced disappearances, 12 extra-judicial killings: BNM Report

Protests against Karima Baloch's murder enter 3rd day in Balochistan
Protest against enforced disappearances. Baloch women staging protest to seek details of their kin who were illegally picked up by Pakistani forces. (File Pic)

Quetta, Dec 18 (NVI) Pakistan-occupied Balochistan and Karachi, the capital of Sindh Province, saw an alarming number of 98 enforced disappearances and 12 extra-judicial killings in the month of November by the Pakistan Army and its affiliates as part of their continued policy of ‘kill-and-dump’, according to a report.

The monthly report by Paank, the Human Rights Department of Baloch National Movement (BNM), has documented the cases of these enforced disappearances and extra-judicial killings, said a statement issued by the BNM.

According to the report, the Pakistan Army and its affiliates continue to employ their ‘kill-and-dump’ policy under the controversial ‘Operation Silence.’

The practice of enforced disappearances involves illegally picking up individuals, torturing them in illegal confinement, executing them extrajudicially, and discarding their bodies in remote locations to silence dissent.

Among the 12 documented extra-judicial killings were Muhammad Nawaz, Ghulam Buzdar, and Jafar Marri, who were abducted and killed on November 6 in Musakhel, it said.

Bashir Ahmed, who had been missing since May from Gwadar, was found dead on November 23 in Awaran.

A particularly distressing case involves 16-year-old Israr Baloch, detained by the Counter Terrorism Department and later killed.

The report emphasizes that these military tactics are not limited to targeting insurgents but also extend to civilians, fostering an atmosphere of fear and employing collective punishment.

The military’s use of state-backed death squads, comprising criminal collaborators, further deepens the crisis.

These groups not only engage in acts of violence but are also implicated in illegal activities such as theft and drug trafficking, operating with near-total impunity.

Communities across Balochistan remain devastated by the loss and uncertainty surrounding their loved ones.

Paank’s data suggests that the actual number of disappearances and killings may be significantly higher, as many cases go unreported due to fear of retaliation.

The Baloch National Movement called for urgent international attention to address the escalating violence and hold those responsible accountable.

Human rights advocates warn that global intervention is critical to ending these atrocities and ensuring justice for the affected families and communities. (NVI)

Police foils J&K Congress party’s Rajbhawan ‘Gherao’ over Statehood issue in Jammu

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Dec 18 (NVI): The Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Congress party’s planned Rajbhawan “Gherao” protest over the issue of statehood was foiled by the police in Jammu today.

The protest was part of the party’s efforts to demand the restoration of J&K’s statehood, which was revoked in 2019 when the J&K’s special status under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution was also rolled back.

Congress MLAs, leaders and workers had gathered with the intention of marching to the Rajbhawan (Lieutenant Governor’s residence) as a symbol of protest. However, the police took preventive action, disallowing the protesters from reaching the location. In response, J&K Congress chief Tariq Hameed Karra stated that the protest was aimed at highlighting the delay in restoring statehood to the region. Karra said, “We were not allowed to march towards Raj Bhawan and hence we call off our protest here only (at Residency Road).”

The issue of statehood remains a significant point of contention in the region, with political parties and groups continuing to advocate for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. (News Vibes of India)

Army seizes arms, ammunition, narcotics in Kupwara district

File Photo

NVI Correspondent,

Srinagar, Dec 18 (NVI): Security forces in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district have recovered a large cache of arms, ammunition and narcotics in a successful operation in the Amrohi area of the Tangdhar sector.

According to a statement from the Army’s Srinagar based 15 Corps, a joint search operation was launched in the area following reliable intelligence inputs. During the operation, forces seized four pistols, six pistol magazines, 4 kg of narcotics and other war-like stores.

The Army reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a “terror-free” Kashmir, stating, “Chinar (15) Corps remains steadfast in its efforts to maintain peace and security in the Valley.” (New Vibes of India)

Katra observes shut down in protest against Rs 250-Cr rope way project

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Dec 18 (NVI): Katra, the base town for Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrims, is observing a complete shutdown today, in response to a call by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti.

The bandh protests the proposed Rs 250-crore ropeway project connecting Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat, which locals fear will devastate their livelihoods.

“We depend entirely on the footfall of pilgrims for our survival. This ropeway will take everything away from us,” said Ramesh Sharma, a shopkeeper in Katra. Another local, Sunita Devi, who operates a pony service, lamented, “The project will leave hundreds of us jobless. How are we supposed to feed our families?”

The Sangharsh Samiti, representing traders, hoteliers and service providers, argues the project would divert pilgrims away from Katra’s traditional trek, rendering businesses and services like pony rides and palanquins obsolete.

Despite issuing a 15-day ultimatum to the government to scrap the project, protesters say their concerns remain unaddressed. “We are not against development, but not at the cost of our survival,” said Rajiv Gupta, a local activist leading the demonstrations.

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, however, claims the ropeway would enhance safety and convenience for pilgrims. Local stakeholders, meanwhile, insist it threatens the town’s economic fabric and undermines the traditional pilgrimage experience.

As rallies and hunger strikes continue, locals demand a written assurance from the government to cancel the project, warning of intensified protests if their demands remain unmet. “This is our livelihood, our future, and we will fight for it,” Gupta declared.(News Vibes of India)

Cold wave continues: Kashmir freezes, Zojila settles at -23°C, Srinagar records -4.5 °C

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 18(NVI):
The cold wave sweeping across Jammu and Kashmir intensified today as minimum temperatures plunged to a new low with Zojila topping the charts at a bone-chilling -23.0°C.

In the Kashmir Valley, Shopian recorded the lowest temperature at -7.8°C, closely followed by Sonamarg at -7.7°C and Pulwama at -7.3°C. Popular tourist spots like Pahalgam registered -5.8°C, while Gulmarg remained unreported. The region’s capital, Srinagar, experienced a frosty -4.5°C, with other towns like Qazigund and Anantnag hitting -5.0°C and -6.9°C, respectively.

The cold wave also gripped the Jammu region, though temperatures were comparatively higher. Padder was the coldest at -6.2°C, while Banihal recorded -1.9°C and Bhaderwah -0.4°C. Meanwhile, Jammu city recorded a relatively mild 8.1°C, and Katra, the base town for Vaishno Devi pilgrims, stood at 7.6°C.

In Ladakh, the chill was harsher, with Kargil and Leh plunging to -10.9°C and -10.0°C, respectively, signaling the start of an even more severe winter in the weeks ahead.

The plummeting mercury levels have disrupted daily life across the region. Frost has made roads slippery, impacted water supplies, and slowed down morning activities. Authorities have urged residents to take precautions, as the Meteorological Department predicts dry weather for the coming days, which could further exacerbate the cold spell.

Despite the freezing conditions, the snow-covered landscapes have drawn tourists to destinations like Sonamarg and Gulmarg, offering a boost to the region’s winter tourism. “The cold is biting, but the views are breathtaking. It’s worth every shiver,” said a tourist visiting Gulmarg.

As temperatures continue to drop, locals brace for more frigid days ahead while welcoming the seasonal influx of visitors who come to enjoy Kashmir’s winter charm.(News Vibes of India)

Six people died in a tragic fire incident at Kathua

Representational Picture

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Dec 18 ( NVI) A heart-wrenching incident took place in the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir in the wee hours today as a massive fire engulfed the residence of a retired Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), resulting in the loss of six lives and injuries to three others.

The tragedy struck at 4 am, leaving the community in shock.

According to initial reports, the victims are believed to have succumbed to suffocation caused by the intense smoke that filled the house. Among the injured is a brave neighbor who was hurt while attempting to rescue those trapped inside. Despite his heroic efforts, the fire proved too overwhelming, leading to a tragic outcome for several members of the household. At least three persons are seriously wounded including the neighbour,witnesses said.

Local authorities and emergency responders quickly reached the site, but the fire had already caused extensive damage by the time it was brought under control. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the blaze, though initial speculation points to a possible short circuit or accidental fire.

The incident has left the neighborhood in a state of deep grief. Residents described the retired DySP’s family as well-respected members of the community, making the tragedy even more poignant. As the news spread, neighbors and well-wishers gathered outside the charred remains of the house to offer their condolences and support to the bereaved family.

This heartbreaking fire serves as a grim reminder of the importance of fire safety measures and preparedness.

Authorities have urged the public to ensure their homes are equipped with functional fire safety equipment, such as smoke detectors and extinguishers, to prevent similar tragedies.

The district administration has assured support to the grieving family and promised a thorough investigation into the incident. ( News Vibes of India)

Balochistan: BLA claims to have killed 4 Pakistani Army men, injured 7

Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) fighters at some undisclosed location. File Pic.

Quetta (Pakistan-occupied Balochistan), Dec 17 (NVI) Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed to have killed 4 personnel of occupying Pakistan Army and injured 7 in multiple attacks in Balochistan over last two days.

In one incident, BLA fighters targeted motorcycle-borne personnel of the occupying Pakistani army by detonating an IED in Jat Bazar area of Dasht in Kech district yesterday afternoon, its spokesman Jeeyand Baloch said in a statement.

In the blast, both personnel were eliminated on the spot and their motorcycle was destroyed, he said.

BLA fighters also attacked a post of the occupying Pakistani army in Tamp, Mirabad last night with modern weapons, the spokesman said.

During this, several shells were fired at the enemy army positions from rocket and grenade launchers, Jeeyand Baloch said.

At least two personnel of the occupying army were killed on the spot and four were injured in the attack, he said.

Earlier, BLA fighters targeted the security posts of the occupying Pakistani army at the water supply point in Gadgi Bazar area of ​​Panjgur district on the night of December 15-16, the spokesman said.

The fighters attacked the enemy army with automatic weapons and fired several rounds using a grenade launcher, resulting in at least three personnel being wounded, he said.

BLA fighters also targeted and destroyed a truck involved in the looting of Baloch national resources at Rabat in Daki yesterday, the spokesman said.
Machinery of a communication tower in the Rabat area of ​​Daki was also destroyed last night, he said. (NVI)
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