President visits Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine

President Ram Nath Kovind today visited the cave shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi and paid obeisance at the sanctum sanctorum.

Kovind prayed for the progress and prosperity of the people of the country, an official spokesman said.

The President was accompanied by First Lady Savita Kovind, Governor N N Vohra and Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Kumar Singh.

During his visit, the President went around the Shrine complex, viewed the facilities and met with pilgrims.

Governor, who is also the chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, briefed the President about the initiatives being taken for upgrading and expanding the infrastructure for serving the increasing number of pilgrims.

Vohra observed that a master plan has been prepared for the Bhawan and the extended shrine area to provide accommodation to pilgrims at Bhawan, Adhkuwari, Katra and Jammu.

Giving details about various social support initiatives taken by the Board, especially in the education and health sectors, the governor referred to the establishment of superspeciality hospital, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University and College of Nursing at Kakryal and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Gurukul at Charanpaduka.

On infrastructure projects, the Governor informed the President that passenger ropeway between Bhawan and Bhairon Ghati and Material rope way between Siar Dabri and Bhawan are nearing completion.

He also informed the President about the ongoing slope stabilisation project and installation of shelter sheds for ensuring safety of pilgrims against shooting stones and landslides, besides, the upcoming Tarakote Marg at an estimated cost of about Rs 80 crore.

Earlier, on his arrival at the Panchhi Helipad from Jammu, the President was received by Umang Narula, the CEO of the Shrine Board.