The situation became challenging as heavy crowds gathered at multiple points, leaving little space for movement. The continuous inflow raised safety and management concerns for the administration. To prevent overcrowding and ensure smooth darshan, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board decided to temporarily suspend new registrations.

According to officials, the registration halt remained in effect until the morning of January 1. During this period, only already registered pilgrims were allowed to proceed. The move aimed to regulate footfall and provide a safer pilgrimage experience for devotees already on the track.

Authorities stated that similar crowd pressure is being seen at major religious and tourist destinations nationwide due to New Year celebrations. Popular places in Jammu and Kashmir, including Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Sonmarg, also reported heavy tourist arrivals.

Elsewhere, Manali and Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, along with Nainital in Uttarakhand, saw record visitor numbers. From Ayodhya and Varanasi to Shirdi, Ujjain, Dwarka, and Puri, long queues marked the start of the New Year.

The Shrine Board appealed to devotees to cooperate and follow official advisories for a safe and peaceful yatra.

The post Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra Sees Massive New Year Rush appeared first on India Podcast.

The resolution was passed unanimously during a special session at Sri Anandpur Sahib, marking the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Hotels and restaurants within these spiritual zones will also not be allowed to serve prohibited items.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the move fulfils a decades-old demand of the Sikh community and will help transform the areas into world-class religious tourism destinations. The government has also prepared detailed development plans for all three cities.

However, the Shiromani Akali Dal claimed that these cities were declared holy during the tenure of former CM Parkash Singh Badal, calling the new announcement political drama. Experts say the decision strengthens Sikh heritage, improves conservation and enhances facilities for millions of pilgrims arriving from India and abroad.

The post Punjab Declares Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo as Holy Cities; Ban on Meat, Alcohol and Tobacco in Sacred Corridors appeared first on India Podcast.