Mata Vaishno Devi yatra update: Shrine board introduces new time limit for ascent and return journey

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has made significant changes to the rules regarding the pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi. According to the new orders, pilgrims must begin their journey within 10 hours of receiving their RFID travel card along with their travel registration. It is also mandatory to complete the journey and return to the base camp in Katra within 24 hours.

These instructions issued by the Shrine Board are effective immediately. Previously, the validity of the RFID travel card was 12 hours, and devotees could begin their journey at any time during that period, with no set time limit for completing the journey.

The decision was made in light of the growing crowds ahead of the New Year

The Shrine Board clarified that with the New Year approaching, the number of pilgrims to the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra is rapidly increasing. Traditionally, large crowds gather three to four days before the New Year each year. These new rules have been implemented to control crowds and prevent any stampedes at the Bhawan complex and major religious sites.

The new rules will apply to all pilgrims traveling by any means, whether on foot, by helicopter, by battery car, or by any other means. The Shrine Board has instructed officials and staff posted at Yatra registration centers to continuously communicate these new rules to pilgrims.

Safety and convenience of devotees is a priority

The Shrine Board administration says that the main objective of these rules is to streamline the crowd, make the journey safe and provide better facilities to the devotees, so that any kind of chaos or accident can be avoided during the holy journey.