41.77 lakh pilgrims visit Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine

Jammu, Aug 9 (UNI) Over 41.77 lakh pilgrims from various parts of the country have so far visited the holy Cave Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi this year.

During the corresponding period last year, over 42 lakh pilgrims had darshan at the holy cave shrine, sources at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) said.

Sources further said during July 2007,as many as 7,09,075 devotees paid obeisance at the holy cave as compared to 7,12,626 devotees during the corresponding period last year.

Presently, 19,000 to 20,000 pilgrims are daily reaching at the base camp in Katra town for their onward journey to the shrine, they added.

All necessary security arrangements have been made by the police department for the pilgrims coming to Darbar and at the base camp in Katra town.

UNI