Jammu, Dec 14: ‘Shubhra Bhawan’, an advanced multi-utility complex designed to provide premier amenities for pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine in the Trikuta hills of Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district, is set to be inaugurated next week, as announced by an official on Saturday.
This newly built facility covers 18,000 square feet and has been constructed at a cost of Rs 6.50 crore. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also the chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, will inaugurate the complex on December 18, according to the official.
Situated at Banganga, approximately half a kilometer from the Darshani Deodi—the traditional route for the pilgrimage—Shubhra Bhawan represents the shrine board’s ongoing efforts to improve the experience for devotees visiting the site.
The complex offers a wide range of amenities including a spacious waiting lounge with a capacity of 200, a mothers’ room, a central information and registration center, a souvenir shop, refreshment kiosks, and both Bank and Water ATMs, along with 18 modern residential quarters for staff.
Additionally, the facility incorporates a disaster management store and is equipped with advanced security measures such as CCTV cameras, access control, and fire alarm systems to ensure the safety and security of both pilgrims and staff, the official reported.
Following a ‘poojan’ ceremony, Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), conducted a comprehensive inspection of the complex, underscoring the importance of the new development.
“This multi-utility complex (G+2) has been envisioned under the guidance of the shrine board chairman, aimed at addressing the evolving needs of pilgrims using the conventional route and the staff stationed in and around Banganga,” said Garg. He emphasized that this facility exemplifies the board’s dedication to creating a comfortable and secure environment that will greatly enhance the pilgrimage experience while offering modern amenities.
