Jammu

A massive influx of pilgrims has been witnessed at the revered Mata Vaishno Devi shrine during the ongoing Chaitra Navratri, with more than 2.69 lakh devotees offering prayers so far.

According to officials from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, a total of 2,69,716 pilgrims had visited the holy cave temple till March 25. The yatra has been proceeding smoothly despite the surge in footfall.

Devotees, chanting “Jai Mata Di”, are making their way along the winding 13-kilometre trek to seek blessings at the shrine, which holds special religious significance during Navratri, a festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her nine forms.

Daily pilgrim numbers have steadily remained high, with over 31,000 visitors on the opening day (March 19), rising to more than 45,000 on March 23, before slightly easing in the following days. Authorities briefly halted registrations on two occasions to regulate the heavy rush and maintain safety.

The base camp town of Katra, along with the twin tracks leading to the shrine and the Bhawan परिसर, has been illuminated and decorated with flowers, creating a festive and devotional atmosphere.

To manage the large crowds, a multi-layered security setup has been deployed, involving police, paramilitary forces including the CRPF, and quick response teams. Volunteers have also been stationed along the route to assist pilgrims and ensure smooth movement.

In a bid to improve coordination, the Shrine Board has introduced wireless communication systems along the yatra path this year.

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Marking the beginning of the festival, the sacred Shat Chandi Maha Yagya commenced on March 19 at the shrine, with Vedic rituals and chants being performed to invoke peace and prosperity.