Jammu, Jun 23: The annual Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has crossed the 50-lakh pilgrim mark this year, registering a sharp increase in footfall compared to the corresponding period in 2025, officials said on Tuesday.
According to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, 50.70 lakh devotees had visited the revered cave shrine in Reasi district by June 22, an increase of 10.86 lakh pilgrims over the 39.84 lakh recorded during the same period last year. The figures reflect a growth of more than 27 per cent.
A Shrine Board spokesperson said the surge in pilgrim arrivals reflects the unwavering faith of devotees from across the country and abroad, as well as growing confidence in the facilities and management of the pilgrimage.
The spokesperson said the Shrine Board, under the chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, has implemented several measures to ensure a safe, smooth and comfortable pilgrimage. These include upgrades in infrastructure, accommodation, sanitation, healthcare services, crowd management, battery car and ropeway facilities, disaster preparedness and digital services.
The Board expressed confidence that the strong pilgrim turnout in the first half of the year indicates sustained enthusiasm among devotees and is expected to further boost the Yatra during the remaining months of 2026. (KINS)
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