Katra, May 8, 2025 – The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, nestled in the Trikuta Hills, is experiencing light rain showers, casting a serene yet challenging atmosphere over the pilgrimage. Katra, the base town, is seeing mild rainfall with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C, rendering the 12-km trek to the holy cave scenic but slippery. Pilgrims are advised to wear non-slip footwear and carry raincoats or umbrellas to navigate the path safely.
Compounding travel difficulties, National Highway-44 (NH-44), the main route from Jammu to Katra, is facing disruptions due to recent landslides and ongoing road repairs, leading to significant traffic delays. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) recommends that devotees check real-time traffic updates via local authorities or navigation apps before setting out. To mitigate these challenges, the SMVDSB has implemented advanced safety measures, including 700 AI-enabled CCTV cameras and a newly launched Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) this month, enhancing crowd management and security.
The shrine has seen a 65% drop in pilgrim footfall following a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, with hotel bookings in Katra plummeting by over 70%. “Our priority is ensuring a safe and smooth pilgrimage,” said SMVDSB CEO Anshul Garg, noting new amenities such as smart lockers and resting areas. The IRCTC’s Delhi-Katra tour package, which includes train travel and guided shrine visits, remains a convenient option for devotees.
