Mata Vaishno Devi yatra alert: shrine board issues important advisory for pilgrims
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : The Shrine Board has issued an important notice for devotees of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi. In light of the increase in fraudulent cases related to darshan and bookings, the Board has advised pilgrims to remain vigilant. The Board has clarified that pilgrims should not be deceived by fraudulent messages, phone calls, or WhatsApp forwards requesting money in the name of darshan or other facilities, and should not make any payments.
The Shrine Board posted on its official X account stating that all bookings, including for darshan, accommodation, and helicopter services, are made only through the official website, maavaishnodevi.org. The Board urged pilgrims to confirm information before making payments. In case of any doubt, devotees can contact the Shrine Board's help desk number, +91 9906019494. The Board urged them to remain vigilant, travel safely, and complete the journey with the chant "Jai Mata Di."
Smart Locker facility increases convenience
Keeping in mind the convenience of pilgrims, the Shrine Board has made arrangements for smart lockers in various Bhawan halls like Adhkunwari, Gate No. 03 and Parvati, Durga and Ram Mandir. Devotees having confirmed bookings for services like Ataka Aarti, Nav Chandi Path, Group Ataka, Katra-Panchi Helicopter and Jammu Bhawan-Jammu Package can use the smart locker in Room No. 04 free of cost. For this, it is mandatory to have the official seal of the reception counter of Room No. 04 on the booking receipt, documents without seal will not be accepted.
Weather is favorable, journey is smooth
The weather in Maa Vaishno Devi Dham, including Katra, remains clear. The clear skies since morning brought relief to the pilgrims in their journey, although cold winds continued to blow in the hilly areas. The recent snowfall in Kashmir has certainly increased the cold, but this has not affected the enthusiasm of the pilgrims.
The pilgrimage route echoed with chants of "Maa Vaishno Devi ki Jai" throughout the day. Due to favorable weather, helicopter services operated uninterrupted, providing special convenience to the elderly, the sick, and pilgrims who needed limited time for darshan. The Shrine Board made elaborate security and arrangements for the pilgrimage, ensuring a peaceful journey.