J-K LG dedicates new Vaishnavi Bhawan at cave shrine to devotees

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha dedicated the newly constructed Vaishnavi Bhawan at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine to enhance accommodation and pilgrim amenities.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday dedicated the newly constructed Vaishnavi Bhawan at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine to devotees, aimed at enhancing accommodation facilities and improving pilgrim amenities at the holy cave shrine.

Speaking on the occasion, Sinha said that the new facility would significantly increase accommodation capacity at the Bhawan and provide modern, efficient and comfortable infrastructure to cater to the growing number of pilgrims visiting the shrine every year.

The project was conceived under the comprehensive master plan for the Bhawan and its extended areas, officials said.

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board approved the redevelopment of the Pannishalla area, previously used as staff quarters, into a Yatri-cum-Staff Accommodation Complex to strengthen infrastructure and expand lodging facilities for pilgrims.

Constructed over an area of approximately 45,784 square feet, the new Vaishnavi Bhawan features 78 well-furnished rooms for devotees. The construction work began in February 2024 and was completed within two years, they said.

Officials said the ground floor houses reception and waiting areas, the manager's office, and a staff mess with kitchen facilities to ensure smooth operation of the complex. A 'bhojanalaya' has also been established on the terrace to cater to pilgrims and the staff.

The building has been equipped with five lifts, including three passenger lifts with a capacity of 26 persons each, one service lift and a connecting lift linking the facility with the Parvati Bhawan, ensuring greater accessibility and convenience for visitors.

Later, the Lieutenant Governor paid obeisance at the shrine.