Old Vaishno Devi cave thrown open for pilgrims

Jammu, Nov 1 (UNI) The sacred old Vaishno Devi cave has been opened for the pilgrims visiting the shrine Katra town of Reasi district, official sources today said.

According to sources, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has decided to throw open the old cave of the holy shrine for 'darshans' to provide enhanced spiritual bliss to pilgrims during the day between 1000 hrs and 1600 hrs.

''This mechanism will remain in vogue only when the number of pilgrims visiting the shrine will be comparatively lesser than the daily average,'' Additional Chief Executive Officer, Puneet Kumar told UNI.

He further said when the pilgrims rush would swell, the old cave might be closed for 'darshans' due to management reasons.

Meanwhile the CEO also informed that over 62 lakh pilgrims have already visited the holy shrine and paid obeisance during the past ten months.

''If the rush of pilgrims remains the same, as has been during the past six months, the yatra may cross an all-time high record of 74 lakhs,'' Mr Kumar added.

Mr Puneet said that against 62,00,356 pilgrims visiting the shrine from January to October this year their number was 59,25,059 during the corresponding period last year and in all 69,50,573 pilgrims had 'darshans' of the shrine in 2006.

UNI