The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has announced a new helicopter booking service specifically for senior citizens and specially-abled pilgrims visiting the famous shrine in Jammu and Kashmir. This service will start on Saturday and can be booked through the board’s official website, maavaishnodevi.org.
Anshul Garg, the CEO of SMVDSB, said this new service is part of their ongoing efforts to improve the experience for all pilgrims. The decision to create a separate helicopter quota comes after requests from the Senior Citizen Forum, which recently met with the board to discuss their needs.
This helicopter service follows the successful introduction of a similar booking system for battery cars, which has been well-received by visitors.
In addition to the helicopter service, the Shrine Board has also started a free tea service at the Yatra Facilitation Centre at Katra Railway Station. This is meant to welcome pilgrims and provide them with refreshments when they arrive. To enhance the food offerings, ‘Kadhi-Chawal’ has been added to the free meals already available at Adhkuwari and Bhairon Ghati.
The board has also introduced a ‘Hawan Poojan’ facility at the Adhkuwari Yagyashala, allowing pilgrims to participate in traditional rituals during their visit.
Improving infrastructure is a key focus for the Shrine Board. Garg mentioned that they are upgrading the Banganga track, which includes building a new queue area at Darshani Deodi that can hold up to 1,500 pilgrims. Other improvements include widening the track, adding decorative street lights, and upgrading the drainage system along a 2.5 km stretch from Darshani Deodi to Charanpaduka.
To accommodate the growing number of visitors, a covered waiting area is being built at Adhkuwari for those wanting to visit the holy Garbjoon cave. Earlier this year, the board also announced priority Darshan for local residents using their Aadhar cards, recognizing their strong connection to the shrine.
Garg emphasized that the board is committed to making the pilgrimage experience better for everyone, ensuring that it is easier and more welcoming for all who come to visit the sacred site.
