Jammu, August 12: Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district have registered a case against two illegal pony operators on the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Trek.
On Tuesday, police apprehended Raj Singh from Kakra village and Abhishek Singh from Thakrakot village at the Ban Ganga check point. They were found operating without valid pony cards.
A police spokesperson stated that security measures have been intensified ahead of the upcoming Independence Day on August 15. As part of these measures, a surprise check point was established to inspect pony, porter, and palki operators along the route.
The spokesperson further noted that two separate FIRs have been filed against the accused at Katra police station under relevant sections of the law.
Police reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety and convenience of pilgrims and tourists. They warned that strict action will be taken against anyone violating the rules related to pony and palki operations, especially in areas with heavy pilgrim traffic.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site located at an altitude of 5,200 feet on the Trikoot Mountain in the Katra area of Reasi district.
Pilgrims typically trek approximately 12 to 13 kilometers from the base camp in Katra to reach the temple, where they can pay homage to three natural rock formations representing Goddess Kali, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Saraswati.
Katra, situated about 43 kilometers from Jammu city, serves as the base camp for this sacred journey. The trek to the temple involves a steep climb of around 12 to 13 kilometers.
Pilgrims have various options for reaching Sanjhichhat from Katra, including walking, pony rides, electric auto services, palkis, and helicopter services.
Inside the cave, there are no idols or statues; worship is conducted at three natural rock formations (pindis).
This temple symbolizes the combined divine energy of Goddess Kali, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Saraswati.
Legend has it that the Goddess defeated the demon Bhairavnath just outside the cave. Before dying, he realized his mistake, and the Goddess granted him a boon that the pilgrimage would not be considered complete without visiting the nearby Bhairavnath Temple. The site is managed by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, established in 1986, which is led by the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha as its ex-officio chairman.
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