J&K: LG Manoj Sinha Chairs 72nd Board Meeting Of SMVDSB At Raj Bhawan In Jammu

In Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired the 72nd Board Meeting of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) at Raj Bhawan in Jammu yesterday. The Board reviewed the progress of its various past decisions, progress of different developmental initiatives and held extensive deliberations on crucial aspects of pilgrim facilitation, ratified and gave in-principle approvals to as many as 27 agenda items to augment pilgrim services and to ensure smooth functioning of the Board. Early start of heli-service in the Jammu-Panchhi sector and Medical College of the Board at Kakryal, construction of different buildings in various sectors aimed at augmenting capacities etc were the major decisions taken at the meeting. The Board observed that direct helicopter service between Jammu Airport and Panchhi Helipad on the Shrine track will not only bolster emergency response capabilities but also improve pilgrimage experience of devotees. The LG, who is also the Chairman of SMVDSB, reviewed the progress of ongoing works and emphasized on timely completion of all projects for the ease of pilgrimage. The important projects in this regard were ‘New Vaishnavi Bhawan at the shrine’, ‘Cottages (near Sports Stadium), Katra’, ‘Staff Quarters (G+2) at Banganga’, ‘Covered Holding Area at Adhkuwari’, ‘Yatri Facilitation Centre at Railway Station, Katra’, ‘New Yagyashala at Bhawan’ etc. The Board appreciated the facade lighting project initiated for enhancing the aesthetics/ambience at Bhawan, Adhkuwari and Darshani Deodi through a captivating visual spectacle and spiritual enlightenment.

Various new projects were also approved by the Board, which include ‘Construction of Exit Track at Bhawan’, ‘Remodelling of Manokamna Area at Bhawan’ and ’Covered Waiting Area at Darshani Deodi, Ban-Ganga’.