Vaishnodevi pilgrimage set to increase

SMVDSB draws up comprehensive plan to upgrade infrastructure

As the pilgrimage to world famous cave shrine situated in the Trikuta Hills is poised to increase considerably particularly from next year when the holy town of Katra will be connected with rest of the country by train, Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine Board has drawn a comprehensive plan to upgrade and increase all sorts of infrastructure to cater to the requirement of pilgrims.

In an exclusive interview to EXCELSIOR, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine Board, Mr Navin Choudhary said that since the holy town of Katra is going to be connected with rest of the country by train from next year, the pilgrimage to the cave shrine of Shri Mata Vaishnodevi, which has already crossed one crore mark, will further increase considerably.

As the existing infrastructure would not suffice to cater to the requirement of the growing number of pilgrims, Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine Board has drawn up a comprehensive plan to upgrade and increase infrastructure right from the holy town up to the cave, he said, adding while some activities have already been started, several major steps will be initiated in the coming months.

Stating that Board has to move ahead of the time to upgrade and increase infrastructure well before further increase in the yatra, the CEO of the Shrine Board said that all the important aspects like increasing accommodation for the pilgrims, improving availability of water, sanitation, widening of the track, smoothening of gradients and segregation of mules from pilgrims by installing dividers have been taken care of in the comprehensive plan.

"While upgrading and increasing infrastructure adequate steps would be taken to protect the environment and greenery of the Trikuta Hills," he added.

Mr Navin Choudhary, who is also Principal Secretary to the Governor, disclosed that dedicated mule track between Katra and Adh Kuwari has been made through and work on protection walls was going on at a required pace and would be completed within a period of next two months.

"As soon as bare minimum infrastructure is created on the track, ponies carrying material of Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine Board will be shifted to this track at the initial stage", he said, adding "this would reduce the load on the existing track and help in controlling mule dung menace".

Stating that adequate steps are being taken to upgrade the water supply facilities on the entire Yatra track, he said, "work on major water supply scheme for the holy town of Katra is also going on", adding "we have also got a hint about the availability of ground water in the Bhawan area and attempts would be made to tap the same".

"The Shrine Board is also increasing manpower and upgrading mechanized equipment to ensure complete sanitation on the entire Yatra track as well as in Bhawan area", adding "the trial of the mule-dung based bio-gas plant is going on smoothly and the same will be put to use on commercial basis by the end of current month".

In response to a question, Mr Navin Choudhary said, "for transportation of mule dung to the plant we are exploring the options of shifting the same in battery operated cars or outsource the same", adding "though battery operated cars option is most suitable and economically viable option yet final decision in this regard would be taken within next some days".

About the accommodation facilities for the pilgrims, the CEO said, "it has been the continuous endeavour of the Shrine Board to create adequate accommodation facilities for the comfortable stay of pilgrims", adding "the structure of Parvati Bhawan near the cave area has already been raised and the finishing work is going on. By the end of current year, the Parvati Bhawan would be ready for use by the pilgrims".

He further informed that Shrine Board has decided to raze Durga Bhawan complex to raise new infrastructure with sufficient capacity and better facilities. In order to ensure that pilgrims don't face any inconvenience due to razing of the complex, the same would be done in most sensitive manner, he said, adding demolition of complex would start from May and completed within a period of next three months.

"Since the shortage of lockers is being felt due to increase in the number of pilgrims, we have identified three locations where facility of 3000 additional lockers would be made available", the CEO said.

"We have also prioritized widening of Bhawan-Bhairon Ghati-Shanjishat track and replacement of existing tiles on this section as well as on Shanjishat to Adhkuwari track besides smoothening of gradients for the convenience of the pilgrims", Mr Navin Choudhary said, adding "while upgrading and increasing infrastructure enough thrust will be laid on protection of environment and greenery".

Responding to a question regarding ropeway project, the CEO of Shrine Board said that process of obtaining necessary clearances was going on. "We have the plans to initially put ropeway to use for transportation of material as this would minimize the load on the track", he added.

Modernization of Jammu Rly Station

Multi crore hawala in Kashmir

BJP on Shah's killing with PM

Govt to tap pilgrim tourism potential

Lauding efforts of Shree Chandi Mata Trust for providing platform to singers, Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand said the State is rich in talent and local artists have excelled in their field not only in the country but all over the world. Such competitions go a long way in nurturing budding vocalists of the area and provides an opportunity to showcase the local talent to a wider audience, he added.

He was speaking after inaugurating Bhaint competition organized by Shree Chandi Mata Trust, Jammu and kashmir.

Calling upon the organizers to make the event a regular feature, the Deputy Chief Minister said every year a national level Bhajan competition is organized at Katra and local as well as national artists participate in the same, adding that success of the competition can be adjudged from the fact that winners of the competition have earned name and fame in the music industry.

Reiterating resolve of the Government for promoting pilgrim tourism, Mr. Tara Chand said focused attention is being paid to promote religious tourist circuits of the State and all out efforts have been initiated to upgrade required infrastructure at these world famous pilgrim destinations.

He said tourism is an important contributor to State's economy and Government is fully determined to tap the vast potential of pilgrim tourism in all three regions of the State.

Underscoring the need to provide better facilities to pilgrims, he said Ghulam Nabi Azad has shown personal interest in the project for upgrading infrastructure of Machail Yatra and measures have been initiated to improve the arrangements on the lines of Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra.

"Machail Yatra is growing every year and as per an estimate it has crossed five lakh last year, now we have to initiate measures for promoting the yatra in a much bigger way," he added.

Among others the function was attended by, Padam Shree S.P. Verma and Special Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Kuldip Lal Khajuria.

Various demands were projected by the Trust, including Bhawan/ Sarai at Jammu and Padar and up gradation of facilities for the visiting yatris.

Responding to the demands, the Deputy Chief Minister said all genuine demands of the Trust would be examined and necessary action taken.

Power shut down on Sept 10
Peerzada in Wikileaks
Teachers Day in jammu kashmir ladakh

3 Day Shiv Khori Mela from Feb 19

The historic 3-day Shiv Khori Mela is commencing at Ramsoo, the base camp of the Shiv Khori Shrine in district Reasi of Jammu province, from February 19.

The Deputy Commissioner Reasi, Sheetal Nanda, who is also Vice Chairman of Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board (SSKSB) convened a meeting of officers to review the various arrangements for the smooth conduct of the mela here on Monday.

The Director Tourism Jammu, R. S Mehta, Assistant Commissioner Revenue (Executive Officer SSKSB), S. S Samyal, Additional SP HQ, Ajeetha, Dy. Director Tourism, Subash Chander, Tehsildar Reasi, District Social Welfare Officer, ARTO, and officers from various departments participated in the meeting.

The Deputy Commissioner disclosed that preparations for providing necessary facilities to the visiting pilgrims are going on and instructions were also given to all the concerned Government Departments for making all the arrangement well in advance.

She issued instructions to the concerned to give festive look to the Darshani Deodi of cave shrine and other important areas on the track as well as the base camp of the Shrine.

Free langers by various social organizations besides entertainment for the pilgrims by various cultural troops and free style last day of the mela at Ransoo would be other highlights during the Mela days.

Attention intending Hajj pilgrims

According to the Executive Officer, J&K State Hajj Committee, Srinagar all those intending pilgrims who have been applying for the Hajj pilgrimage for the year 2009, 2010 and 2011 continuously but could not figure in the selection list are hereby informed to register their claims alongwith necessary documents in the office of the J&K State Hajj Committee, Baitu-ul-Hujaj (Hajj House), Bemina with effect from January 23, 2012 to February 05, 2012.

However, the intending pilgrims from Jammu Division, Leh and Kargil districts can submit their claims through respective Deputy Commissioner’s office.

Natural Cave of Vaishno Devi Opened

Yatris take to old way of darshan at Vaishno Devi

After about an year, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has opened natural and traditional old cave for pilgrims of the Goddess in view of decline in yatra rush due to harsh winter following snowfall and rains in Trikuta Hills for the past few days.

"This is nearly after a year that historic and natural cave of Mata Vaishno Devi ji has been thrown open for the pilgrims to reach sanctum sanctorum to have darshan of natural pindies of the Goddess'', SMVDSB Additional CEO Dr Mandeep K Bhandari said.

He added that the old cave is being opened for six hours (10 am to 4 pm) during the day time. However, the time can be extended depending upon rush of the yatris.

"If the rush remained below normal, the natural cave timings are extended but if it increased, the authorities closed the old cave and divert pilgrims to adjoining new cave for reaching the sanctum sanctorum'', Dr Bhandari said.

Yesterday, 12,000 pilgrims had darshan of Goddess Vaishno Devi amidst chilly weather conditions and rains. Today, about 9000 yatris left Katra, the base camp of the shrine, for the Bhawan.

Worthwhile to mention here that the Shrine Board had constructed two more caves leading to sanctum sanctorum, where three natural pindies of the Goddess are located. The traditional cave shrine was closed by the Board to reduce waiting for the pilgrims after number of yatris started picking up in nineties following take over of affairs of the shrine by the SMVDSB.

The old and traditional cave was opened for few days in January last year. This is exactly after a year that the natural cave has been opened for the yatris.

On an average, about 15,000 yatris have been visiting Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan these days. The Bhawan, Bhairon Ghati, Sanji Chat and track up to Adh Kunwari had experienced snowfall few days back. It rained on the track and the Bhawan throughout the day today.

Official sources said though the new track from Adh Kunwari to Bhawan was operational, the Shrine Board staff was keeping a watch on it since the route was prone to landslides. The track is closed for few hours during rains and re-opened for pilgrims later. However, the old route remained open as there was no threat of landslides on this track, they added.

The Shrine Board was constructing another alternate route exclusively for mules from near Katra to Adh-Kunwari. Work on this track was going on expeditiously and was expected to be completed in a year's time.

After completion of track, the pilgrims trekking to Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan and the mules would have separate routes. The mules are not allowed on alternate track from Adh-Kunwari to Bhawan.

Last year 1.01 crore pilgrims had visited holy cave shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi ji, which was an a.ll time record. This year also, the Shrine Board was expecting similar or even more rush of pilgrims to the holy cave shrine.

Rush to Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan generally picked up in the month of March when the winter and examination season is over.

First Batch of Hajjis Reach Valley

The first batch of  Hajj pilgrims from the state arrived here today.Chief minister, Omar Abdullah received the pilgrims at the airport here. Minister of state for Hajj and Auqaf, Ajaz Ahmad Khan, was present on the occasion.279 pilgrims formed the first batch and were flown here in an Indian Airlines plane.While interacting with the pilgrims, Omar  enquired about their well being. He congratulated them for performing the Hajj successfully and returning to their homes.The pilgrims expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made by the government for their smooth travelling and stay at holy places.

Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today received the first batch of Hajjis at Srinagar Airport who returned back after performing the Hajj.

The Minister of State for Hajj and Auqaf, Ajaz Ahmad Khan was present on the occasion.

While interacting with the Hajjis, Omar Abdullah enquired of their welfare and shared wishes with them. He congratulated them for performing the Hajj successfully and returning back to their homes.

The Hajjis expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made by the Government for their smooth travelling and stay at holy places.

The first batch of 279 Hajjis arrived here today by Indian Airlines flight.

The Additional Commissioner, Kashmir, Abdul Majid Wani, DIG Srinagar-Budgam, Abdul Gani Mir, Director Information, Khawaja Farooq Renzushah, Deputy Commissioner, Budgam, Mohammad Rafi, Director, Airport Authority of India, Raj K. Malik, and other officers were also present on the occasion.

Gangbal Yatra 2011

35 Piligrims leave for historic Gangbal Yatra

A delegation of about 35 pandits on Sunday morning left for ancient Harmukh-Gangbal to the sacred lake here from picturesque village of Naranag in Kangan Tehsil of district Ganderbal.

Notably, it was after a gap of about 100 years that the yatra to Harmukh-Gangbal was restarted only a couple of years back in 2009.

On June 4, 2009, a batch of some 22 pilgrims visited the holy lake at Gangbal on a three-day traditional
yatra.

“The government, in 2009, in an effort to restore and revive the historic religious places for the cultural
and religious preservation started the yatra bringing lots of euphoria on the faces of Kashmiri Pandits here,” a Kashmiri Pandit who is the part of the yatra to Gangbal told Kashmir Times.

Situated at an altitude of 12,000 feet, the pilgrims will visit Harmukh Gangbal shrine and will leave back on 7th of this month. District administration Ganderbal in association with district police and army have made all the necessary arrangements for the convenience of the Yatries.

For this historic three-day yatra, Superintendent of Police Ganderbal, Shahid Mehraj Rather is supervising and has made all the necessary arrangements for the pilgrims. The yatra was flagged off by him.
“We have ensured all the necessary (security) arrangements for the convenience of the Yatries. Police and Army components have been put in place”

6.36 lakh Piligrims Visit Amarnath Yatra 2011

Forty-six days long annual pilgrimage to holy cave shrine of Shri Amarnath ji, located at a height of 13,500 feet from the sea level in South Kashmir Himalayas, concluded today with Mahant Deependera Giri carrying holy mace (Chhari Mubarak) of Lord Shiva, joined by about 500 devotees, performing darshan in the shrine.

On the occasion of Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan, the final day of annual yatra, about 1,000 pilgrims today paid obeisance inside the holy cave shrine of Lord Shiva. Governor NN Vohra, who happened to be the chairman of Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) and SASB CEO R K Goyal also performed prayers in the shrine today.

A record number of 6.36 lakh yatris had darshan of Lord Shiva’s holy Ice Lingam during about one and a half month yatra this year. The pilgrimage had started on June 29. There was heavy rush of pilgrims during first 20 days when number of the yatris having darshan daily ranged between 25,000 to 30,000. The holy Ice Lingam remained in full bloom during about a month after which it started melting.

However, with the rise in number of pilgrims, the yatra also witnessed number of 107 deaths this year with 68 of them breathing their last due to cardiac and pulmonary failures. Five porters and two security personnel were among those killed during the yatra period.

During 2010, 68 pilgrims had died while the number was 45 in 2009.

Official sources attributed increase in number of deaths during the yatra to massive rise in rush of the pilgrims during initial period when a large number of unregistered pilgrims visited the shrine.

While hardly 3 lakh yatris had registered themselves for the yatra through Jammu and Kashmir Bank, Yes Bank and some Co-operative Banks for the pilgrimage, 6.36 lakh pilgrims performed darshan. Nearly 3.36 lakh unregistered yatris undertook the pilgrimage. The SASB had covered registered yatris as well as porters for Rs 1 lakh insurance cover.

While 3.50 lakh pilgrims reached holy cave shrine of Shri Amarnath ji from tougher but shortest 14 kilometers Baltal track, 2.84 lakh yatris opted for traditional 34 kilometers Pahalgam-Chandanwari route.

As against 6.36 lakh yatris performing darshan during this year’s annual pilgrimage, the previous best figure of 5.33 lakh of 2008 was surpassed. In 2010, 4.55 lakh yatris had visited the holy cave shrine while the number was 3.81 lakh in 2009.

In 2001 when the SASB had taken over affairs of the shrine, 1.19 lakh yatris had paid obeisance to Lord Shiva’s cave shrine while the number came down to 1.10 lakh in 2002 but went up to 1.70 lakh in 2003. The number of yatris recorded a sudden jump to 4 lakh in 2004 but it again came down to 3.88 lakh in 2005, 3.47 lakh in 2006 and 2.96 lakh in 2007.

During Amarnath land row agitation in 2008, the highest number of 5,33,368 yatris had visited the holy cave shrine in South Kashmir Himalayas. This year, the number went up by 1.03 lakh.

Sources said security forces, para-military personnel and police had made impressive tight security arrangements for the pilgrimage right from Lakhanpur to the cave shrine at a height of 13,500 feet from the sea level and performed the task of providing security cover to a large number of pilgrims under extreme tough terrain and weather conditions.

Army personnel, who had been assigned the security of peaks including the cave shrine, did an extra ordinary job braving chilly weather and other difficult tasks. Not even a single militancy-related incident was reported on either of the two tracks or any other place connected to the yatra during 46 days period, sources said.

Governor NN Vohra, the chairman of the SASB and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah constantly monitored yatra arrangements and security.

However, the number of 107 deaths during the pilgrimage remained a matter of concern for the Shrine Board as well as the pilgrims. There was a strong opinion among the pilgrims as well as the local people that the Board should upgrade medical facilities on the tracks and the cave shrine to prevent, or at least, minimize the number of deaths.

Meanwhile, the ‘Chhari Mubarak’ of Lord Shiva reached the Amarnath ji shrine from Panchtarni halting station this morning after a night halt.

Led by Mahant Deependera Giri, custodian of holy mace, hundreds of devotees and Sadhus accompanied it.

A special prayer was offered on the occasion of ‘Shravan Purnima’ to pay obeisance to ice-lingam of Lord Shiva – coinciding with Raksha Bandhan – to mark the conclusion of the annual yatra.

Governor N N Vohra, Mrs Usha Vohra and Chief Executive Officer of Shrine Board R K Goyal also took part in the prayers at the cave shrine.

After the traditional prayers, the ‘Chhari Mubarak’ was taken back to Panchtarni for a night halt.

The holy mace is scheduled to reach Chandanwari tomorrow and Pahalgam on Monday on its return journey.

‘Pujan’ and ‘Visarjan’ ceremonies would be performed on the banks of river Lidder in Pahalgam on Monday while the Chhari would return to its abode at Dashnami Akhara in Srinagar on the same day.

The Governor, expressing satisfaction over the smooth conduct of this year’s yatra, complimented all the concerned Departments of the State Government, Army, CRPF, BSF, State police, BSNL, J&K Bank, and all other concerned organisations, and particularly the people of the State, for making the pilgrimage a satisfying experience for thousands of pilgrims who visited the holy shrine this year from various parts of the country, over the past 45 days.

He had a word of appreciation for the close coordination, which had been maintained among security forces, civil and police administration, all the stakeholders, local population and the Shrine Board in ensuring a smooth and peaceful Yatra.

As Chairman of the Shrine Board, the Governor had been monitoring all important aspects of the yatra management on daily basis and personally reviewing the arrangements for the pilgrimage by visiting the base camps, camps enroute and the holy cave.

He had earlier issued strict instructions for launching a time-bound post-yatra cleanliness drive at the base camps, camps enroute and in the holy cave area for ensuring absolute purity of the entire yatra area.

In this context, the Governor particularly visited Panchtarni and Sheshnag camps today to personally review the results of the cleanliness drive launched in the yatra area.

Expressing satisfaction over the implementation of the sanitation measures, the Governor asked the CEO of the Shrine Board to ensure the disposal of all garbage by August 20, so that the entire yatra area is free from all solid wastes well before the onset of ensuing winter season.

Mr Goyal said that 6.36 lakh yatris paid their obeisance at the holy cave Shrine during this year’s pilgrimage, which had commenced on June 29, simultaneously from Baltal and Nunwan base camps, ensuring equitable economic benefits to the local stakeholders residing in Sonamarg-Baltal and Pahalgam-Chandanwari areas.

Referring to various new initiatives taken during the Yatra-2011, Mr Goyal said that the Shrine Board has been according very high priority to the implementation of sanitation and related measures for the preservation of the environment at the base camps and at all the locations enroute the cave shrine and both the yatra routes.

He said that the two Sewerage Treatment Plants (STPs), based on Eco-friendly technology/Biological treatment, at the Baltal and Nunwan base camps, yielded very encouraging outcomes.

Mr Goyal added that the toilet/bath facilities were significantly augmented at Sheshnag, Panchtarni and holy cave camps, with over 250 additional toilets.

He further said that all the toilets were dosed with eco-friendly bacteria on daily basis, for decomposition of the faecal matter.

The CEO disclosed that like last year, all the registered pilgrims were provided free of cost Accident Insurance Cover of Rs one lakh this year as well.

He said that the accidental insurance cover was also provided, with the support from the State Government, to all the registered labourers deployed during the yatra, as well as for the pony owners, in case their horse/pony was involved in an accidental death.

This scheme was aimed at benefiting about 20,000 labourers and 7,000 pony owners, almost all of whom belonged to the economically weaker sections of the society.

Mr Goyal disclosed that insurance claims of pony owners are being processed expeditiously and hoped that beneficiary pony owners would receive the insurance claim in the coming weeks, after completion of all procedural formalities.

Dwelling on other activities this year, the CEO stated that the helicopter services were made available on both Baltal-Panchtarni and Pahalgam-Panchtarni routes, at reasonable fares.

The CEO added that, at the instance of the Governor, several steps were taken for the promotion of tourism industry in the J&K State, through enhanced and equitable distribution of helicopter seats among the registered Tour and Travel Agents and their Associations (based at Srinagar and Jammu), Hotel Associations of Kashmir and Jammu Divisions, House Boat Owners Association and Pahalgam Hotel Association.

These collaborative arrangements were widely appreciated by all the stakeholders.

Mr Goyal added that mobile phone connectivity had been made operational by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) on both Pahalgam and Baltal routes of the entire yatra area up to the holy cave shrine of Shri Amarnath ji this year 10 days ahead of the commencement of the yatra, which not only enabled the yatris to contact their families back home while undertaking the pilgrimage through mountainous tracks but helped a great deal in day to day management of the Yatra.

The Board had also installed Digital Satellite Phones at the crucial camps at Sheshnag, Panchtarni and the holy cave, which proved to be extremely useful for real time monitoring of the Yatra arrangements as also the movement of Yatris.

He informed that round the clock Control Room was established in the CEO’s office to monitor all movements and to particularly watch the weather reports.

Despite repeated Advisories and issue of Do’s and Don’ts to the Yatris, the CEO regretted that as many as 107 Yatris lost their lives due to medical reasons, the prime among them being cardiac arrests and pulmonary failures.

Mr Goyal stated that the Shrine Board had provided all required financial help and logistical support for the medical treatment of those injured, for the transportation of dead bodies to various parts of the country, and in arranging evacuation, wherever required.

Holy Mace to reach Amarnath

6.35 lakh yatris perform darshan Chhari Mubarak to reach cave today

The holy mace (Chhari Mubarak) of Lord Shiva reached Panchtarni from Sheshnag this afternoon.

Led by Mahant Deependra Giri, custodian of Lord Shiva’s holy mace, hundreds of devotees and Sadhus accompanied it. The holy mace had reached Sheshnag yesterday evening from Chandanwari and after traditional Chhari Poojan at Sheshnag it left for Panchtarni, the last camp before the holy cave situated at an altitude of 13500 feet in South Kashmir district of Anantnag early this morning.

Soon after reaching Panchtarni, Chhari Poojan was performed by Mahant Ji. Braving the heavy rain fall, hundreds of Saints and devotees besides jawans of CRPF and J&K Police participated in Chhari Poojan.

The holy mace will leave for cave shrine early tomorrow morning on the occasion of Shravan Purnima to pay its obeisance to Ice Shivlingam of Lord Shiva. After the traditional Pooja -Archana in the holy cave, it will return to Panchtarni late in the afternoon. After a night halt at Panchtarni, the holy mace will reach Chandanwari on August 14. Next day it will move towards Pahalgam where after the Chhari Poojan at the bank of river Lidder, Chhari Visarjan (immersion of holy mace) will be performed on August 15. This will be followed by a Bhandara for Sadhus and devotees.

With this, the 46 -day long Swami Amarnath Ji yatra which started on June 29, will culminate.

The Chhari Mubarak had left Dashnami Akhara Srinagar on August 8 for holy cave and reached Pahalgam the same day.

Enroute to Pahalgam Chhari Poojan was performed at Durga Nag temple, Srinagar, Pampore, Awantipora, Bijbehara, Nagbal Anantnag, Tirath Raj Martand (Mattan) Aishmuqam and Pahalgam.

Meanwhile, 700 pilgrims performed darshan at holy cave today. With 6,34,360 yatris performing darshan in holy cave till late last night the number has reached to 6,35,060, a Yatra Officer said. This is the record number of pilgrims visiting the holy cave so far.

He said out of them 2,84,201 yatris have visited via traditional Pahalgam-Chandanwari track while 3,39,154 took shortest Baltal route.

Out of 6,34, 360 pilgrims who had visited holy cave, 6.30 lakh have returned to their home States while the rest were on their way back. The pilgrims, who paid obeisance in holy cave yesterday, were on their way to Pahalgam and Baltal base camps, he added.

The Yatra Officer said 444 pilgrims left for holy cave from twin base camps of Pahalgam and Baltal early this morning. Out of them only 21 pilgrims left via Nunwan-Chandanwari track while 423 left via Baltal route.

He said the heavy rains lashed both the tracks right from Baltal as well as Pahalgam to holy cave today but there was no disturbance in the movement of yatra which continued smoothly.

As tomorrow being the last day of darshan, no Yatri left for holy cave from Jammu today. It may be recalled that last batch of 10 pilgrims had left for holy cave from here yesterday morning. 

Attention Haj Pilgrims

According State Haj Committee, the selected pilgrims from State are advised to remit their balance amount of Rs 90,342.00 in green category, Rs 80,588.00 in white category and Rs 73,515.00 in Azizia category. Pilgrims throughout the Country from green to Azizia as only 52,000 units were available in green category against 60,000 applications. All selected pilgrims are informed to check the accommodation status on Haj Committee website www.hajcommittee.com before depositing the balance amount. The last date of remittance of balance amount is September 3, 2011.

160000 perform darshan in holy cave

Unabated rush of pilgrims continues, Governor reviews arrangements

Over 1,60,000 perform darshan in holy cave

Undeterred by inclement weather on the holy cave track and tough terrain enroute, the rush of Amarnath pilgrims is increasing day by day with 25,000 pilgrims performing darshan in the cave shrine today. According to a yatra officer 25,940 pilgrims left for darshan of ice Shivlingam in holy cave today. Out of them 14,7,77 yatris left from traditional Nunwan -Pahalgam track while 11,163 left via shortest Baltal track. Besides seventh batch of 3,267 pilgrims left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas here for their onwards sojourn early this morning under tight security arrangements.

Comprising 2177 males, 791 females, 90 children and 209 Sadhus, these yatris left in a cavalcade of 104 vehicles and they had reached to their respective destinations till last reports came in.

Till yesterday 1,37, 129 pilgrims had performed darshan in holy cave and this number touched 1,62,129 today.

The official spokesman said that the yatra was proceeding smoothly and the authorities also improved arrangements for pilgrims enroute to holy cave in view of increasing rush and the problems faced by the stranded yatris during past few days.

He said the weather to holy cave from both Pahalgam and Baltal tracks was pleasant. There was unprecedented rush and it was increasing day by day as thousands of yatris are daily reaching Pahalgam and Baltal base camps for their onwards sojourn, he added.

He said such a heavy rush has never been witnessed by him before though he has been associated with yatra for last ten years. The main reason for increasing rush is the reports of fully visible Ice Shivlingam and improvement in Valley situation, he added.

Meanwhile, concerned about the difficulties faced by the pilgrims and the general public, particularly with regard to extra heavy traffic on the National Highway, the Governor, N N Vohra who is also the chairman of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, (SASB) convened a high level meeting in Summer Capital today. The meeting among others was attended by Director General Police (DGP), Kuldeep Khoda, Principal Secretary Home, B R Sharma and Chief Executive Officer, of the Board R K Goyal.

During the meeting it was decided that state police will fully strengthen the Access Control Barriers and check posts at all the camps to ensure smooth and convenient movement of the yatra in close coordination with Shrine Board officials.

The meeting also decided that CEO will review weather situation around 4 am every morning before issuing directions regarding camp wise movements of the yatra to the holy cave and back to the base camps. A close watch will also be kept on emerging weather pattern and the CEO will, for the convenience of the yatris, issue daily weather bulletins based on the Met Department reports.

The Governor issued instructions to all the agencies involved in the overall management and conduct of the pilgrimage to ensure close and effective coordination in the interest of the safety and security of the yatris, particularly with regard to the forward movement of the yatris to the base camps and onwards to the holy shrine.

At Jammu a high level official meeting was convened by Divisional Commissioner, Dr Pawan Kotwal, at Yatri Niwas today to review the arrangements for the Amarnath pilgrims.

The meeting, while taking stock of the situation issued instructions to concerned agencies to ensure proper electricity, water, accommodation and other facilities to pilgrims.

Dr Kotwal, who made a round of the Yatri Niwas, also interacted with the yatris there and enquired about the arrangements. Later talking to Excelsior he said that the meeting decided how to tackle the situation in view of the Metrological Department’s forecast that there will be thundershowers on July 7, 8 and 9 in Kashmir Division.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, Municipal Commissioner, Jammu, Director Tourism and other officers involved with yatra arrangements. 

Lok Bhawan shrine

Renovation drive launched at Tirath Raj
Lok Bhawan shrine

In view of coming Harbah festival falling on July 12, a cleanliness and renovation drive of Tirath Raj Lok Bhawan shrine in Anantnag district of South Kashmir was launched by the Migrant Employees Forum from Vessu.

The shrine, which remained closed for pilgrimage during last 20 years of turmoil had suffered major damage during this period also. However during last some years the Prabandhak Committee Teerath Raj Lok Bhawan undertook the renovation work of the shrine and performed the religious functions also.

The volunteers of Forum led by Sanjay Koul and Sanjay Ganjoo under the patronage of Ajay Bharti advisor of the Committee launched the drive.

Meanwhile a meeting of the Prabandhak Committee was also held here today under the presidentship of Maharaj Krishan Raina in which it was decided to organize annual yatra to the shrine from here on Harbah festival this year. The yatra will start from here on July 10.

85,000 perform Amarnath Yatra

Yatra to remain suspended from Jammu for 2nd day today Over 85,000 perform darshan in 4 days

A total number of 24,560 devotees performed darshan in holy cave of Swami Amarnath Ji today as the yatra was restored from Baltal track after remaining suspended yesterday.

As there was no improvement in the weather conditions the yatra will continue to remain suspended for second consecutive day tomorrow from Jammu to Kashmir valley, an official spokesman said. Earlier authorities had suspended yatra from Jammu today in view of heavy downpour at the holy cave yesterday.

According to reports, thousands of yatris are camping at Nunwan-Pahalgam base camp in South Kashmir district of Anantnag and Baltal base camp in Ganderbal district of Central Kashmir.

A police officer, Incharge yatra, said that 9,856 pilgrims left Nunwan base camp early in the morning for next transit camp while 12, 625 left Baltal to holy cave early this morning.

He said 24,560 pilgrims performed darshan at holy cave today while 60,944 pilgrims had performed darshan till yesterday. With this a total number of 85,504 pilgrims have paid their obeisance in the holy cave since first day of darshan on June 29.

The spokesman said that weather was pleasant in Nunwan and Chandanwari for the day but it drizzled for over half an hour this evening.

The spokesman said that there is a heavy rush of pilgrims as thousands of yatris are camping in the transit camps of Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panchtarni on traditional Pahalgam-Chandanwari track while thousands of yatris also reached the two base camps of Nunwan and Baltal today for darshan of Ice Shivlingam.

This has created a problem for the authorities and Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) as well, spokesman said, adding that 30,000 to 40,000 pilgrims can't be accommodated on two tracks daily.

He said to avert any eventuality in view of heavy rush and inclement weather, the authorities decided to suspend the yatra from Jammu today. Despite the inclement weather and heavy down pour, the unabated rush of pilgrims continued as thousands of yatris are crossing the Lakhanpur daily for their onwards sojourn to holy cave.

Meanwhile, chaos prevailed at various places on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway due to stoppage of Amarnath bound pilgrims by the police. The traffic jams were witnessed for hours together at National Highway at Domel, Tikri and other places after the police did not allow the vehicles carrying Amarnath pilgrims to proceed towards Kashmir Valley resulting in sharp criticism from other commuters and tourists visiting the Valley.

Sunil Kumar, who along with his family was traveling for sight seeing in Kashmir Valley to enjoy the summer vacation at a Hill resort, said that he was put to lot of trouble after the police denied permission to his car to proceed further.

Same were the complaints from other tourists also who were wary of the administration for stopping all the commuters under the garb of unregistered yatris. "Had we been knowing that there will be such a problem in visiting Kashmir to spend the summer holidays we would have preferred to visit the hill stations in Himachal or Uttrakhand’’ said Kumar.

The authorities have also drawn a flak from the registered yatris who too were made to suffer for checking the unregistered yatris on National Highway.

‘‘There is no proper system adopted by the authorities and police in checking’’ said Raman Khullar, a pilgrim from Haryana. ‘‘If Government has established a police information booth at Kunjwani why it didn't stop the yatra at that very point and why the pilgrims are allowed to take the Kunjwani by-pass for Srinagar,’’ he asked?

There is total chaos on National Highway due to lack of proper facilities for the boarding and lodging of yatris, he said, adding authorities have failed to make arrangements to tackle this huge rush.

Police also resorted to mild lathicharge near Patnitop on pilgrims who were adamant to proceed towards Kashmir Valley.

Meanwhile over 5,000 yatris were stranded in Jammu city. There is heavy rush in Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas and many yatris were camping on road said while others have taken shelter in adjoining residential houses due to lack of accommodation facilities inside the Yatri Niwas forcing the pilgrims to lodge protest against the authorities, sources said.

Meanwhile, three more pilgrims died on way to holy cave today due to cardiac arrest. They have been identified as Arvind Kumar son of Vikram Singh of Ghaziabad UP, Bhagwati Devi Wife of Udaha Prashad of Lucknow and Raghunath son of Radha Krishan of Ahmed Nagar Maharashtra.

Vaishno Devi Yatra at Rise

Vaishno Devi yatra set to cross 9 million June breaks all time record of pilgrimage

In another significant record, the month of June this year has recorded highest ever yatra to holy cave shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi ji for any month with 11.45 lakh pilgrims paying obeisance to the Goddess taking total yatra during first half of the year to 46.39 lakh, about 4.5 lakh more than the corresponding period for last year.

The previous highest pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine for any month was recorded in June 2008 when 11,18,065 yatris had visited natural cave of the Goddess. During this June, 11,23,178 yatris had darshan of Vaishno Devi till last night. By tonight, the number was expected to touch 11.45 lakh. The yatris, who had online registration, were yet to be included in this month’s figure.

Official sources said total yatra to Mata Vaishno Devi’s shrine during first half of the year (till June 29 night) was 46,39,554 as compared to previous year’s 41,87,605.

During six months of this year, the yatra has gone up by 4,51,949.

June being the month of summer vacations almost all over the country has always witnessed highest ever yatra in the year.

In addition to previous best figure of 11.18 lakh in June 2008, the yatra in June 2009 was 10.13 lakh. It was 9.19 lakh in June 2010, 9.35 lakh in 2007, 9.37 lakh in 2006 and 8.57 lakh in 2005. Even in 1986 when Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) was set up and total yatra for the year was 13.95 lakh, the month of June had recorded highest yatra of 1.93 lakh.

Going by the increase of 4.51 lakh in first half of the year, the yatra was expected to touch or cross the figure of 9 million mark for the first time in the history. During 2010, 87 lakh pilgrims had performed darshan of natural pindies of Goddess Vaishno Devi. If everything goes well, the yatra would easily cross 9 million this year, sources said.

The yatra arrangements are being supervised personally by Additional CEO of SMVDSB, Dr Mandeep Bhandari.

The Shrine Board was ultimately bracing up to receive 1 crore pilgrims in the next couple of years. The infrastructure is being developed taking in view the arrival of 10 million yatris a year.

SDPO Katra P N Tickoo said security arrangements at Katra, which serves as base camp for the shrine, Darshani Deodi, Ban Ganga and surrounding areas have already been intensified in view of heavy rush to the holy cave shrine.

Mr Tickoo said the pilgrims having mobile handset with IMEI number and photo identity cards were being allowed only in the hotels, guest houses, lodges and sarais as per the directive of police.

As against 87.2 lakh yatra in 2010, the number in 2009 was 82 lakh. In 2008, 67.92 lakh yatra was recorded while the number was 74.17 lakh in 2007. The pilgrimage was down in 2008 due to Amarnath land row agitation.

Even last year, the SMVDSB authorities were anticipating 9 million yatra to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine but the number remained slightly less due to three month unrest during summer in the Kashmir valley. The Valley unrest also had impact on the yatra to Vaishno Devi Bhawan.

While 4,21,231 yatris had darshan of natural pindies of Goddess Vaishno Devi during January this year, the similar figure for previous year was 3,99,665. In February, the yatra came down slightly and stood at 3,69,755 as against 3,77,213 last year. In March, 7.55 lakh yatris paid obeisance to the Goddess as against 7.22 lakh last year. In April this year, 9.77 lakh pilgrims visited Mata’s Bhawan as against 8.35 lakh last year.

Yatra to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in the month of May was almost equal like the last year. While this year, 8.7 lakh yatris visited the cave shrine, the figure for the last year was 8.65 lakh.

Civil Defence to assist in Amarnath Yatra

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Udhampur Surinder Gupta called upon the functionaries of Civil Defence (CD) Organisation of Udhampur to be ready to meet the challenge in wake of any natural or manmade calamities, if any.

The SSP was addressing a largely attended meeting of Civil Defence wardens of different wards of Udhampur town and CD volunteers of various tehsils of the district here on Sunday.

Deputy Controller, Civil Defence, Bodh Raj, Chief Warden, Surinder Khajuria, Deputy Chief Warden, Advocate S.D Kotwal, Post Wardens, Wardens and volunteers attended the meeting.

Highlighting the role of Civil Defence in protecting the precious lives and property in the event of war, break out of fire and other exigencies, Gupta said that trained Civil Defence volunteers could prove instrumental in managing the situation effectively besides help in building self confidence and concern for humanity among the students.

He appreciated the role of Civil Defence Unit Udhampur for their Voluntary Services during many occasions in helping the people during accidents besides organising number of awareness programmes with district police for strengthening the concept of community policing.

He emphasised the need for extending Civil Defence activities in rural areas for the benefit of common masses. For the purpose he asked the Deputy Controller Civil Defence to organise awareness camps regarding the different activities of the Civil Defence activities in such areas.

Gupta also sought the cooperation of Civil Defence wardens and volunteers for the smooth conduct of ensuing Shree Amaranthi ji Yatra. He said that adequate number of volunteer should be deployed at different locations enroute Tikri to Patnitop especially at the halt sites for the guidance and convenience of pilgrims.

The Deputy Controller Bodhraj said that the Civil Defence volunteers will extend all cooperation for the smooth passage of the Yatra and assist in providing whatsoever help would be required.

The SSP also felicitated the volunteers of Civil Defence for extra ordinary services in relief and resue operations for saving the life of people during an accident which happened at Moungri.

Pilgrim Tourism Circuit in Kashmir

Chrar-e Sharief-Yusmarg-Pakherpora to be developed as major pilgrim tourism circuit 

Reiterating that promises and commitment made to the people would be fulfilled in the right earnest, Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs, Abdul Rahim Rather today said that next three years of the present government shall be a golden era of developmental and prosperity in the state.

Speaking at an open Awami Darbar at historic pilgrim destination, Chrar-i-Sharief, about 29 km from here today, Rather said that all available resources are being mobilized to provide requisite amenities to the people as per their urges and aspirations.

While highlighting the historical and religious importance of Chrar-i-Sharief town, Rather announced that Chrar-i-Sharief-Yusmarg-Pakherpora would be developed as a major Pilgrim Tourism Circuit adding that the Union Tourism Ministry has been approached to provide liberal funding for the purpose. He said both the shrines of Pakherpora and Chrar-i-Sharief have been brought under the purview of Yusmarg Development Authority, adding that upgradation and macadamization of Chrar-i-Sharief- Yusmarg-Pakherpora road is being completed at a cost of Rs 23 crore during the current year which will facilitate trouble free journey to the pilgrims and tourists visiting the shrines of Syed Ali Aali (RA) Pakherpora, Hazrat Noor-ud-Din Wali Chrar-i-Sharief and the world famous Yusmarg tourist spot. He said upgradation and macadamization of Srinagar-Chrar-i-Sharief-Srinagar road including construction of Wathora Bridge shall be completed by November this year.

Urging the need for further research to explore hitherto unknown facets of the life and poetry (Shilooks) of revered saint, Hazrat Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali, Rather said liberal funding will be provided for the purpose adding that the Kashmir University will establish Sheikh-ul-Alam International Research Centre for exhaustive research on the life and teachings of Hazrat Sheikh Noor-ud-Din. He said literary and religious works of Hazrat Sheikh (RA) would be translated in to different languages to disseminate his message across the world in a right perspective.

Rather also announced that the reconstruction of historic Khankah, Chrar-i-Sharief would be completed in a time bound manner at a cost of Rs 26 crore and directed the concerned agency to expedite the ongoing work on this prestigious project. He said the upcoming structure would be a marvellous blend of traditional Islamic and modern architecture with a capacity for about 15,000 people to offer prayers at a time. It shall have a separate prayers Hall for women, Rather added. The original wooden structure, along with hundreds of residential and commercial establishments, was gutted in a devastating fire incident in 1995.

Responding to the demands projected by a cross section of people, Mr. Rather said that power supply position in the Chrar-i-Sharief town will be further improved so that pilgrims do not face any difficulty. He also announced to construct a Mini Secretariat at a cost of Rs 15 crore in the town to provide facilities to the people under one roof. About 8 kanals of land has been identified for the purpose, Rather said. He said that the Chrar-i-Sharief is being developed as a modern town where a modern sports stadium has already been constructed at a cost of Rs 1.20 crore. He also assured dto construct a modern shopping complex in the town.

While giving an account of the development works in and around Chrar-i-Sharief, Rather said Alamdar road, Chrar-i-Sharief-Tilsara road, Badipora-Rehkai-Alamkoot road and more specifically provision of drinking water facility to the people of Chrar-i-Sharief Karewas was a distant dream which has been transferred into reality due to his persistant efforts. Seeking whole hearted cooperation of the people in execution of development works, Rather said every genuine demand of the people would be fulfilled for which patience and peace was pre-requisite. He also enjoined upon the concerned officers and engineers of the district administration to be pro-active and responsive to the demands of the people at the Awami Darbar who have pinned high hopes with the government adding that “it must be our endeavour to come up to their expectations”.

Later, as a follow up action, the Minister chaired a meeting of the officers of district administration discussed all the demands and issues raised by the people. He directed the officers to solve all these problems and demands within minimum possible time.

The Minister also visited the mausoleum of Hazrat Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali (RA) to pay obedience. He prayed for wellbeing, peace and prosperity of the state.

Earlier, Immam-Jamia Khankah Moulvi Amir-ud-Din, on behalf of the people, presented a charter of demands to the Minister and among other things sought Biat-ul-Zairine and Degree College for the town.

Tulamulla to be developed tourist village

Tulamulla has a unique identity for its revered Hindu shrine Khir Bhawani which would be developed model tourist village, said Minister for Tourism and Culture, Nawang Rigzin Jora in an interaction during his visit to Mata Khir Bhawani today during which he assessed the arrangements made by the administration for celebration of mela.

Mr Jora said in this regard, the Tourism Ministry has submitted a project report of Rs 70 lakh to the Centre for approval. He said after receiving the accord from Centre necessary infrastructure facilities besides beautification of the village would be taken up.

The Minister said at present the Tourism Department through JKPCC is executing Rs 16 crore projects at the shrine area for creating upgraded infrastructure facilities for the visiting pilgrims. He said under the project, the construction work of prayers hall, development of Khir Bhawani shrine complex, accommodation facilities and beautification of nallah have been completed by expending Rs 15 crore, adding that other infrastructure facilities would also be completed soon.

The Minister while taking stock of the arrangements made by different departments for the visiting pilgrims at the shrine directed concerned authorities to ensure all facilities to the yatris during mela days.

The Minister on the demand of representatives of Dharmarth Trust directed Director Tourism to formulate a detailed project for construction of public conveniences at suitable sites in the vicinity of shrine. He also issued on the spot instructions to the concerned authorities for cleanliness of shrine area.