India, March 19 -- An elaborate security net has been cast over the trek leading to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine atop the Trikuta hills for the Chaitra Navratras, an official said on Wednesday.City & Local Guides

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) CEO Sachin Kumar Vaishya said the entire shrine area, including the Bhawan and surrounding premises, has been decorated with flowers ahead of the nine-day festival.

A heavy influx of pilgrims is expected to visit the shrine during the period, which ends on Ram Navami.

"The Shrine Board has made extensive arrangements for the convenience, safety, and smooth darshan of the devotees. The footfall of pilgrims this year has reached 15 lakh, and it is believed that the yatra will further ...