The Mata Vaishno Devi shrine has been witnessing exceptionally high footfall since Monday night despite dense fog and chilly conditions as thousands of pilgrims arrived to offer prayers and seek blessings for the New Year.

Registration suspended at Vaishno Devi shrine amid heavy New Year rush

The Shrine Board has advised all pilgrims to carry valid identification, follow designated pathways, and cooperate with the on-ground staff, while the use of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-based tracking will be mandatory to ensure traceability during the pilgrimage.

Vaishno Devi pilgrimage to resume before Navaratras, almost three weeks after landslide tragedy

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that the situation in various parts of Jammu is quite serious after heavy rain and directed the administration to maintain high alert. He said directions have been issued for additional funds to deputy commissioners for emergency work and exigencies.

9 killed in Jammu, Vaishno Devi Yatra suspended amid heavy rain, landslide

Four pilgrims have been injured in the incident while the movement along the track has been disrupted.

Heavy rain triggers landslide on Vaishno Devi yatra route, 4 pilgrims injured

India is home to many ancient temples that are not only important places of worship but also among the richest religious institutions in the country. These temples some of which are centuries old, receive large donations in the form of money, gold, silver and precious stones.

Top eight richest temples in India, net worth of No 1 is estimated at ₹3 lakh crore

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday announced a slew of measures to ensure the safety of pilgrims visiting the Vaishno Devi Temple in Jammu and Kashmir`s Katra.

J&K LG announces slew of measures for safety of pilgrims after stampede at Vaishno Devi

A major fire broke out at India’s Mata Vaishno Devi temple on Tuesday, destroying one building in the Katra region of Jammu and Kashmir. The fire started at the Kalika Bhavan building around 4:15 pm inside a cash counting room, but has been brought under control now.

Jammu: Cash counting room catches fire in Mata Vaishno Devi temple