KATRA: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has dedicated a state-of-the-art waiting hall at Bhawan to provide enhanced comfort and convenience to the pilgrims visiting the revered Shrine.

This newly created facility is part of the Board's continuous efforts to upgrade amenities for the growing number of devotees undertaking the sacred yatra each year.

The waiting hall, spanning 1600 sq.ft., accommodates 100 pilgrims at a time and is conveniently located near Ram Mandir in the main Shrine Complex. Equipped with modern amenities, it features ample seating, lockers, drinking water facilities and well-maintained separate washrooms for men and women devotees.

The spacious well-ventilated hall shall facilitate near 1500 devotees per day adding to the existing daily capacity of 600 devotees at the waiting hall located near Room No. 4, Kalika Bhawan.

Following the poojan, Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board formally inaugurated the waiting hall. CEO highlighted the significance of the new facility stating that created as per the directions of Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT), this waiting hall is a vital addition to the amenities at Bhawan towards ensuring that devotees can focus on their spiritual journey without facing logistical challenges.

He added that over the years, the Shrine Board has undertaken several initiatives to enhance the pilgrimage experience including improved tracks for hassle free pilgrimage, added catering outlets, medical facilities and enhanced accommodations.

The new waiting hall at Bhawan marks yet another milestone in this journey of transformation. We are committed to continually upgrading the infrastructure and facilities at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine to provide a seamless experience for every pilgrim," he said.

This new facility also incorporates a digital information screen to provide live darshans and real-time updates on the yatra schedule besides other essential announcements. Additionally, the hall includes designated counters for inquiry and assistance while ensuring smooth management of the pilgrims. These features are expected to significantly enhance the efficiency of services at Bhawan.

Pilgrims have welcomed the initiative with enthusiasm and gratitude. Many have expressed that the waiting hall will make their spiritual journey more comfortable, especially during adverse weather conditions and times of high footfall. It provides them with a place to rest and rejuvenate before proceeding for darshans.

Among those present on the occasion were Jt. Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB; SDM and Tehsildar Bhawan; Pujaris, other officers and staff of Shrine Board and pilgrims at large.