Umaisar Gull Ganie
Kishtwar, Aug 15: The 43-day-long annual Machail Mata Yatra in Kishtwar district is picking up pace, with over 1.5 lakh pilgrims having paid obeisance at the 9,705-feet-high shrine so far, officials said on Thursday.
Officials told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that a total of 8,862 devotees had darshan on Thursday. “Yesterday, the total figure since the Yatra started was 1,46,039.”
They said that 1,54,901 pilgrims have performed the yatra as of today.
“The newly accessible PMGSY road has eased the pilgrimage to the shrine in Kishtwar’s Paddar valley, reducing travel time by two hours,” officials said.
They said that the 43-day yatra, which started on July 25, will conclude on September 5, with the arrival of the “Charri Yatra” on August 17 expected to boost footfall.
“District administration has enhanced the pilgrimage experience by installing a hybrid solar plant, a 4G tower, and providing modern accommodations like tent cities and guest houses, making the journey safer and more comfortable for devotees,” officials added.
Speaking to KNO, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kishtwar, Devansh Yadav said, “All amenities are in place to cater to the pilgrims, and we are expecting good footfall in the coming week.”
“We have made all necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience. The Charri Yatra is scheduled to commence on 17th August,” he said—(KNO)
