Jammu, August 11, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Jammu and Kashmir Police have booked two pony operators for allegedly operating without valid permits on the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage track in Reasi district, officials said on Tuesday.
The accused, identified as Raj Singh of Kakra and Abhishek Singh of Thakarakote, were intercepted at a checkpoint in Banganga while proceeding towards the cave shrine atop the Trikuta hills.
“A surprise checkpoint was established for verification of pony, pithoo (porter) and palki operators working along the track amid intensified security arrangements ahead of Independence Day on August 15,” a police spokesperson said.
The two men were allegedly found operating without valid pony cards. Separate FIRs have been registered against them at Katra Police Station under relevant provisions of law, the spokesperson said.
Police reiterated that strict action would be taken against anyone violating prescribed regulations governing pony and palki operations, particularly on routes witnessing heavy pilgrim movement.
The enforcement drive is aimed at ensuring the safety and convenience of pilgrims visiting the shrine.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites, is located in the Trikuta Mountains in the Katra area of Reasi district at an altitude of around 5,200 feet.
Pilgrims travel approximately 12-13 km from the base camp at Katra to the shrine, where worship is offered to three natural rock formations, or pindies, representing Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati.
Visitors can reach the shrine through trekking, pony rides and palkis, while helicopter services are available between Katra and Sanjichhat. Electric transport services are also available on designated routes.
The shrine is managed by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, which was established in 1986. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha serves as its ex-officio Chairman.
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