Record Vaishno Devi footfall reflects people's faith: Raman Suri calls for infrastructure expansion

JAMMU: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Raman Suri today said the record number of pilgrims visiting the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine reflects the unwavering faith of devotees and the efficient arrangements made by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB). He said the unprecedented surge also calls for further expansion of infrastructure to meet the growing influx of pilgrims.

Suri said more than 50.70 lakh devotees have paid obeisance at the holy cave during the first six months of the current year, surpassing the corresponding figure of around 39.84 lakh pilgrims recorded during the same period last year. The increase of nearly 10.86 lakh devotees, he said, is a clear indication of the growing confidence of people in the pilgrimage.

Describing the achievement as remarkable, Suri said the previous year's yatra had witnessed disruptions due to natural calamities for several days. Despite those challenges, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board continued strengthening pilgrim facilities, the results of which are now visible through the steady increase in pilgrim arrivals. He appreciated the Shrine Board, security agencies, sanitation workers, healthcare teams and all departments associated with the yatra for ensuring smooth management despite daily pilgrim arrivals crossing 40,000 in recent weeks.

"The record footfall is not merely a statistical achievement but a reflection of the deep-rooted faith of devotees and their confidence in the improved security, cleanliness, infrastructure and management," Suri said. He added that better accommodation, wider tracks, medical facilities, sanitation, battery car services, drinking water arrangements and efficient crowd management have significantly enhanced the pilgrimage experience.

The BJP leader said the increasing number of pilgrims has also provided a major boost to the economy of Jammu and Kashmir by generating employment for thousands associated with transport, hospitality, tourism, handicrafts, trade, pony services, pithoos, palki bearers, shopkeepers and other service providers. He noted that the record pilgrimage, despite attempts by anti-national elements to disturb peace, sends a strong message of public confidence in the improved security environment.

Suri urged the Shrine Board and the administration to continue investing in modern infrastructure and pilgrim-centric facilities to accommodate the growing rush while preserving the sanctity of the shrine and ensuring environmental sustainability. He expressed confidence that if the present trend continues, the current year is likely to witness the highest annual pilgrimage in the history of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra.