Track needs signages mentioning dos, don'ts”- Protect ecology, spiritual heritage of Devi Pindi shrine: Raman Suri

JAMMU: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Raman Suri has expressed deep concern over reports of irresponsible behaviour by some visitors on the sacred Devi Pindi pilgrimage route near Katra and urged devotees, tourists and local authorities to work collectively to preserve the sanctity, ecological richness and spiritual significance of the revered shrine.

In a statement issued here today, Raman Suri said that Devi Pindi is not merely a tourist destination but a deeply revered religious site associated with immense faith and devotion. Situated near Panthal village on the foothills of the Trikuta mountains, the shrine is believed to be associated with Mata Vaishno Devi and is revered as a sacred place of meditation and divine manifestation. The naturally formed holy Pindis worshipped at the shrine symbolize the divine powers of the Goddess and attract thousands of devotees seeking blessings, peace and spiritual fulfilment, he said.

Raman Suri said, the route leading to the shrine is blessed with lush greenery, flowing streams and breathtaking natural beauty, making it equally attractive for nature lovers and tourists. Referring to incidents in recent years regarding consumption of alcohol, littering and irresponsible conduct on the pilgrimage route, Raman Suri said such activities hurt the religious sentiments of devotees and pose a serious threat to the fragile ecology of the area. He emphasized that while tourism should be encouraged, it must never come at the cost of disturbing the sanctity of a sacred place or damaging its natural environment.

The BJP leader said that the increasing footfall of visitors at Devi Pindi calls for a coordinated and well-planned awareness initiative. He urged the Rural Development Department, Tourism Department, local administration, police authorities and shrine management bodies to jointly install informative signboards and awareness signages right from the starting point of the trek and at regular intervals along the route. These boards should prominently highlight the historical and spiritual importance of Devi Pindi and clearly mention the dos and don'ts for visitors, including prohibition on alcohol, littering, plastic waste and activities that disturb the natural surroundings.

Raman Suri further suggested that eco-friendly waste disposal facilities, awareness kiosks and volunteer support mechanisms be introduced to educate visitors about maintaining cleanliness and respecting the religious character of the shrine. He said such measures would not only protect the environment but also enhance the overall experience for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Appealing directly to the public, Raman Suri said that everyone visiting Devi Pindi must treat the area with the respect it deserves. “Those coming with devotion should continue to uphold the spiritual traditions associated with the shrine, while visitors and picnickers who come to enjoy the scenic beauty, cool streams and tranquil surroundings must ensure that they leave the place as clean and pristine as they found it. The natural beauty of Devi Pindi is one of its greatest treasures and preserving it is a collective responsibility,” he said.

Raman Suri also stressed that sustainable tourism and environmental conservation must go hand in hand. He urged local residents, social organizations, youth groups and devotees to participate in cleanliness drives and awareness campaigns so that Devi Pindi remains a symbol of faith, natural beauty and environmental harmony for future generations. He expressed confidence that with collective efforts, the shrine and its surroundings can be protected from misuse while continuing to welcome devotees and visitors from across the country.