CEO Shrine Board holds security review meeting ahead of Republic Day in Katra

KATRA, 18 January 2024: To assess security and operational preparedness of Shrine area for hassle-free pilgrimage before Republic Day celebrations at Katra, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Anshul Garg on Thursday presided over a meeting with security agencies and other stakeholders at Spiritual Growth Centre, Katra.

Laying focus on the smooth regulation of Yatra in line with the directions of Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT), CEO said that the security measures needs to be fortified ahead of the Republic Day celebrations. He underscored the imperative of collaborative efforts among the stakeholders to forge a robust security framework in sync with requirements.

CEO stressed for action on diverse fronts for hassle free pilgrimage in the coming days including issuance and verification of RFID cards, effective crowd management, augmentation of holding areas on the track and in Katra town, working out plans for decongestion of the entire track, particularly the Bhawan area and all time surveillance through dedicated CCTV network of over 700 cameras.

He exhorted all security agencies to remain more vigilant so that no pilgrim without frisking and valid registration enters the track for their pilgrimage.

CEO also reviewed various components of the disaster management measures and directed to make regular announcements and implementation of joint patrolling by the stakeholders.

During the meeting it was revealed that the main function of Republic Day celebrations will be organised in the Shrine Board’s Sports Complex Katra where CEO Shrine Board will unfurl the Tricolor and take the salute of the March past contingents from JKP, CRPF, Shrine Security, NCC and school children, besides a colorful cultural programme will also be presented by the school children.

A slew of directives were also issued by the Chair to the concerned quarters for movement of vehicles, sanitation and drinking water arrangements and illumination of dark spots at Katra town, besides, physical and systematic improvements wherever required after critical examination.