Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have extended the ban on the sale, possession, and consumption of liquor and non-vegetarian food around the Vaishno Devi shrine for another two months. This decision was announced on Sunday by officials who stated that the prohibition will apply in Katra, the base camp for pilgrims visiting the sacred shrine.
The extended ban will be enforced along the 12-kilometer track from Katra to the Vaishno Devi holy cave located on Trikuta Hill, as well as in the surrounding areas. The restriction will remain in place for the next two months from the date of issuance, unless revoked earlier.
Piyush Dhotra, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Katra, issued the order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. The order specifically prohibits the sale, possession, and consumption of liquor and non-vegetarian food.
In addition to the track from Katra to the shrine, the ban will apply to several villages located near the route. This includes villages within a two-kilometer radius on either side of the track, such as Arli, Hansali, and Matyal.
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The ban also covers areas along the Katra-Tikri road, including Chamba, Serli, and Bhagta villages, and along the Katra-Jammu road, affecting villages like Kundrorian, Kotli Bajallian, Nomain, and Maghal. Further restrictions will be enforced along the Katra-Reasi road from Katra to Nau Devian, Aghar Jitto, and Nau Devian markets.
The ban also applies within a 200-meter radius around the railway station on the Katra-Sool road and within 100 meters along the Panthal-Domail road.
This move is part of ongoing efforts to maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage route and ensure a peaceful environment for the millions of devotees who visit the Vaishno Devi shrine each year.
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