HRAK-PHDCCI delegation calls on CEO Shrine Board
Katra, Aug 14: A joint delegation of the Hotel and Restaurant Association, Katra (HRAK) and the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Jammu (PHDCCI-J) region chapter Thursday called on Sachin Kumar Vaishya, newly appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) to share concerns and suggestions aimed at enhancing pilgrim facilities, increasing the duration of their stay to provide a fillip to the pilgrimage.
The delegation comprised president HRAK and chairman PHDCCI-J Rakesh Wazir; HRAK chairman Shyam Lal Kesar; senior vice president Virender Kesar; vice presidents Ajay Kotwal, Nishant Sharma, Vivek Sharma; secretary Ramneek Nawada and executive member Neeraj Jamwal.
Wazir, during interaction with the CEO SMVDSB, proposed that the massive annual inflow of around one crore pilgrims to Shri Mata Vaishno Deviji be effectively rotated towards other religious and tourist destinations in J&K such as Shiv Khori, Nau Devian, Baba Dhansar, Patnitop, Bhaderwah and Kashmir valley sites, with an emphasis on improved infrastructure and publicity.
The delegation also stressed on the beautification of Katra town on the lines of the Golden Temple and Chandni Chowk redevelopment projects, with underground wiring, better cleanliness and planned aesthetics.
Wazir also called for the completion and enhancement of ghats at Banganga and the introduction of Aarti ceremonies there, highlighting their spiritual and cultural importance.
The delegation, while expressing gratitude to CEO for the opportunity to share views, which it felt were crucial for the socio-economic growth of Katra and the entire J&K, also urged for advanced health facilities at Bhawan, Sanji Chhat, and Katra, with trained doctors and optional BP check-up points for pilgrims.
It also sought a mandatory reservation of 25 percent helicopter tickets for senior citizens, differently-abled pilgrims and patients.
Shyam Lal Kesar suggested introduction of the concept of ‘Kar Sewa’ on the pattern of the Golden Temple to involve devotees in voluntary service, reduce operational costs, and foster a deeper connection with the shrine.
