Jammu, Dec 23 (NationPress) The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) convened a meeting on Tuesday to assess Yatra preparedness in anticipation of a significant surge of pilgrims during the New Year.

A statement from SMVDSB noted, "In line with instructions from the Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT), today's meeting was led by Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Chief Executive Officer of SMVDSB, focusing on comprehensive arrangements to guarantee a safe, seamless, and stress-free pilgrimage experience for devotees."

Senior officials from the Shrine Board, District Administration, security agencies, and other critical stakeholders participated in the meeting.

The CEO urged the relevant authorities to enhance Yatra management and security protocols, especially along the pilgrimage route and at the Bhawan.

It was emphasized that a strict RFID-based access control system will be in place to ensure that only pilgrims with valid RFID cards can proceed, as indicated in the statement.

He also ordered the installation of additional handheld RFID scanners and adequate manpower at crucial checkpoints to prevent any oversights.

The CEO was updated on the completion of a thorough training program at the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC), SGC Katra.

Consequently, a continuous monitoring system is being implemented, focusing on areas with high foot traffic to provide real-time surveillance, quick responses, and improved situational awareness.

The Fire and Emergency Services representative was assigned to position firefighting vehicles at strategic locations along the route and conduct a detailed fire safety audit of the Shrine area to enhance existing safety protocols.

The CEO highlighted the necessity of strict compliance with established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and reiterated the importance of meticulous adherence to all aspects of disaster preparedness.

He also stressed the need to upgrade the existing sound system along the track to a fully operational Public Address System, ensuring timely communication of important announcements.

Additionally, relevant agencies were instructed to verify individuals employed in private sectors and service operators along the track to maintain the sanctity of the Shrine and ensure pilgrim safety.

Special attention was directed towards managing traffic congestion caused by unauthorized parking, especially in the Banganga area and Tarakote Marg. The necessity for strict regulation and coordinated enforcement was emphasized to facilitate smooth vehicular movement.

Security agencies briefed attendees on the multi-tier security framework involving personnel from the Police, CRPF, and Shrine Board security, supported by Quick Response Teams (QRTs) for immediate action.

The meeting concluded with explicit instructions to all parties to ensure effective coordination, enhanced vigilance, and a safe, secure, and spiritually enriching pilgrimage experience for all visitors to the Holy Shrine during the New Year.