Ishtiyaq Ahmad
Srinagar, Oct 12 (KNS): President Droupadi Murmu, on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, paid her respects at the revered Vaishno Devi shrine on Thursday.
Meanwhile in a gracious and heartfelt gesture, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extended his thanks and appreciation to President Droupadi Murmu for her visit to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
As per the news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS), during her visit, the President inaugurated a state-of-the-art skywalk and the completely remodeled Parvati Bhavan, both situated atop the Trikuta hills in Reasi district.
Accompanied by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, President Murmu embarked on this spiritual journey to the shrine.
The newly inaugurated 200-meter skywalk is set to revolutionize the pilgrim's journey, streamlining their path to the holy Bhawan and providing a hassle-free experience on their return from the shrine. The skywalk, constructed at a cost of over Rs 9.89 crore, stands 20 feet above the ground, effectively eliminating the challenges posed by a multidirectional flow of pilgrims. This will put an end to the chaotic conditions between Manokamna Bhawan and Gate No-3, which was the site of a tragic stampede on New Year's Day in 2022, resulting in the loss of 12 lives and injuries to 16 individuals.
The primary objective of the skywalk is to alleviate congestion, enhance crowd management, and ensure the safety of pilgrims, particularly during peak periods.
Parvati Bhavan, another vital part of this development, has undergone a complete makeover at an estimated cost of approximately Rs 15 crore. This free-of-cost facility is designed to cater to the needs of pilgrims, offering a seamless experience from luggage deposit to proceeding directly to the shrine. The facility boasts an impressive array of 1,500 lockers, capable of serving 10,000 to 15,000 pilgrims daily, as per officials.
The inauguration of the skywalk and the revamped Parvati Bhavan marks a significant step in enhancing the overall pilgrim experience at Vaishno Devi Shrine, ensuring smoother access and improved crowd management during all seasons. The efforts invested in these projects reflect the commitment to safety, convenience, and spiritual fulfillment for all who visit this revered site.
In a gracious and heartfelt gesture, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extended his thanks and appreciation to President Droupadi Murmu for her recent visit to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
President Murmu's presence in the region was met with enthusiasm and gratitude from both government officials and the local population.
Her commitment to the region's growth and development was evident throughout her visit, and it did not go unnoticed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” the LG has said.
"Madam President," Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed, "On behalf of the entire Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, I extend my sincere thanks and gratitude for gracing us with your presence. Your visit has been a source of great inspiration for our region, and we are deeply appreciative of your attention and support."
During her visit, President Murmu engaged in various activities, meetings, and events, emphasizing the importance of unity, development, and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir. Her interactions with local communities and officials left a lasting impact, reaffirming her commitment to the well-being of the Union Territory.
"Your visit has reaffirmed our collective resolve to work towards a brighter future for Jammu and Kashmir," Lieutenant Governor Sinha added. "The words of wisdom and encouragement you shared with us during your stay will continue to guide us on our journey of progress and development."
“As President Murmu's visit concluded, a sense of renewed optimism and purpose filled the hearts of the residents of Jammu and Kashmir. Her visit had not only strengthened the bonds between the Union Territory and the nation's leadership but also rekindled the hope for a brighter future in the region,” the LG has said.
It is to be mentioned here that Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also expressed his gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu for accepting the invitation to participate in the convocation ceremony at Kashmir University.
The warmth extended by the Lieutenant Governor was evident not only in his words but also in the gracious welcome he offered to President Droupadi Murmu upon her arrival at Srinagar Airport yesterday.
It is to be mentioned here that President Murmu on her visit to JK UT interacted with members of various tribal groups and women involved in self-help initiatives at Raj Bhavan. (KNS)