Katra, March 24 -- The holy shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi is witnessing a massive surge in pilgrim footfall during the ongoing Navratri festival, with more than 2 lakh devotees having paid obeisance in the first six days.

Officials said the yatra is proceeding smoothly despite the heavy rush, with elaborate arrangements in place to manage the continuous inflow of pilgrims. The base camp at Katra and the track leading to the Bhawan remain crowded throughout the day and night.

Registration for the pilgrimage to the holy shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji was temporarily suspended on the eve of March 21 due to a heavy inflow of devotees during the Navratri festival, but soon resumed by 4 AM on March 22.

Authorities had suspended the r...