KATRA: Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board presided over a key meeting at the Spiritual Growth Centre, Katra to review preparations for the Republic Day-2025 celebrations. The meeting brought together senior officials from various government departments and security agencies, demonstrating a unified commitment to hosting a grand and flawless celebration.
It was decided that the main Republic Day function will be held at the Shrine Board's Sports Complex in Katra, where the Chief Executive Officer, Shrine Board will unfurl the National Flag and take the salute during the ceremonial March past. A cultural programme by school children will also be presented. To ensure a seamless experience, the CEO emphasized the importance of timely completion of arrangements, strict adherence to security protocols and coordination among stakeholders.
Special attention was given to venue preparation including proper seating arrangements, sound systems and illumination of premises. The CEO underscored the imperative of bolstering security measures along the pilgrimage route, encompassing the issuance and verification of RFID cards, effective crowd control strategies and the expansion of holding areas both on the track and in Katra town. Additionally, he reviewed disaster management measures directing agencies to make regular announcements and implement joint patrolling.
A slew of directives were also issued by the Chair to the concerned quarters for movement of vehicles, sanitation and drinking water arrangements and illumination of dark spots at Katra town, besides, physical and systematic improvements wherever required after critical examination.
Superintendent of Police Katra assured the CEO that foolproof security arrangements would be made, presenting a detailed security grid and deployment plan. This includes the positioning of quick response teams and a multi-tier security grid comprising Police, CRPF, and other paramilitary forces. Among those present in the meeting were Additional CEO, SMVDSB; SDM, Katra; SP, Katra; Jt CEO; Asstt CEO, SMVDSB; Tehsildar, Bhawan and SMVDSB; ACF; SDPO Bhawan & Katra and officers from Army, IB, CID, SMVDSB and other intelligence agencies.
