Governor for upgraded facilities in Vaishno Devi

Srinagar, Jul 8 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Governor, N N Vohra today asked the functionaries of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) to gear up for the large pilgrim rush, which is likely to cross the 80 lakh mark this year.

Chairing the first meeting of SMVDSB here this afternoon, the Governor, who is also the Chairman of the Board, called for effective monitoring of the available facilities and arrangements for the Yatris to ensure high-class amenities are provided to all the pilgrims.

The Board was informed that 38.75 lakh pilgrims had paid obeisance at the Shrine during first half of this year, which is about 4.35 lakhs more than the number during the corresponding period last year.

In June this year, over 10.50 lakh pilgrims visited the Shrine, which is the highest ever so far in a single month. Last year, about 75 lakh pilgrims paid obeisance at the Cave Shrine on Trikuta Hills.

Dwelling upon the economic impact of the Yatra on the State economy, particularly in the Jammu region, the Governor observed that pilgrim tourism had grown manifold in Jammu and Kashmir and the economic benefits were percolating to different segments of the society connected with tourism.

The Board appointed Mr B B Vyas, Principal Secretary to the Governor, as the new Chief Executive Officer of SMVDSB.

UNI BAS YSS MIR AS2042