Reasi, Sept. 17 -- Safety has been placed at the heart of the resumed Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra, with the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) announcing an extensive set of measures designed to protect pilgrims after the pilgrimage reopened following a 22-day suspension due to a deadly landslide.

Officials confirmed that the resumption of the yatra early Wednesday morning was only allowed after the shrine board carried out essential repairs, safety inspections, and infrastructure checks along the pilgrimage routes leading to the hilltop shrine. The devastating landslide in Reasi last month, which claimed 34 lives and injured 20 others, forced the board to strengthen protocols before welcoming pilgrims again.

A key measure being i...