Share your story and shine at JK Monitor!🌟 Welcome to JK Monitor, where every story matters and every achievement is celebrated! We invite you to share the remarkable journey of your life and showcase your accomplishments to the world. Join our exclusive interviews that honor exceptional individuals just like you. KATRA: In view of the forthcoming Republic Day Celebrations-2026, the Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya presided over a comprehensive review meeting at the Spiritual Growth Centre, Katra aimed at assessing operational and security preparedness to ensure seamless arrangements in close coordination with the District Administration, Reasi and other key stakeholders for the scheduled Republic Day function at Katra.
During the meeting, the CEO emphasized the need to further strengthen security arrangements in accordance with the directions of the Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT). He underscored the importance of seamless coordination and collective efforts among all concerned agencies to establish a robust mechanism ensuring a hassle-free pilgrimage and the smooth conduct of the Republic Day celebrations. Special emphasis was laid on effective crowd regulation, stringent verification of RFID cards, strict frisking protocols, and ensuring that only duly registered pilgrims and authorized service providers are permitted access to the track.
It was informed that the main Republic Day function will be organized at the Shrine Board’s Sports Complex, Katra, where the Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB will unfurl the National Tricolour and take the salute of the ceremonial march past by contingents drawn from the J&K Police, CRPF, Shrine Security, NCC cadets and school children. The celebrations will also include cultural programmes presented by students, based on the patriotic theme and cultural diversity of the region.
The concerned quarters were directed to ensure that all celebrations are held strictly as per the prescribed guidelines and with due regard to the decorum expected of the occasion. Detailed discussions were also held on necessary arrangements such as stage setup, seating, cleanliness, drinking water facilities, deployment of fire-fighting vehicles and security arrangements. The concerned authorities were directed to take timely steps to ensure that all these arrangements are made properly.
Emphasis was also laid on effectively utilizing the technical capabilities of the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) to regulate the yatra enroute to the Bhawan. It was highlighted that real-time monitoring through CCTV cameras would be undertaken to ensure smooth movement of pilgrims, strengthen crowd management and enable prompt response to any untoward incidents.
It was further instructed that the flag hoisting ceremony at the Bhawan area be organized in close coordination with all stakeholders, ensuring proper planning and smooth execution. The concerned quarters were directed to streamline the movement of the yatra, regulate entry and exit points and implement effective crowd management measures. Emphasis was also laid on regular public announcements and the deployment of additional security personnel to maintain safety and order.
The Superintendent of Police, Katra, along with the Commandant, CRPF assured that comprehensive multi-tier security arrangements are being put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the celebrations and effective regulation of the yatra. These measures include the deployment of Quick Response Teams (QRTs), coordinated patrolling and the establishment of a robust layered security grid involving the Police, CRPF, Army and other paramilitary forces.
The meeting was attended by senior Shrine Board officers including Addl. CEO, Jt. CEO, Dy. CEO, Asstt. CEOs, SDM Bhawan, ACF, besides, ACR & Tehsildar Katra, SDPOs Bhawan & Katra as well as officers from the Army, CID, Fire & Emergency Services and other allied agencies.
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