The Swami Chatbot, launched by the Pathanamthitta district administration in Kerala, has received an immensely positive response from pilgrims visiting the Sabrimala temple. The Chatbot, which became active on November 15, aims to make the pilgrimage experience better by equipping thousands of devotees with important information and assistance. The chatbot initiative, undertaken by District Collector Prem Krishna, was meant to address concerns of the pilgrims and simplify the pilgrimage process. "Within just 10 days of its launch, the chatbot reached 75,000 users, showcasing its widespread acceptance and usefulness among devotees. The Swami Chatbot handles an average of 5,000 to 10,000 requests daily, highlighting its efficiency in addressing the needs of a large number of pilgrims," the District Administration said in a press note. The chatbot offers assistance to the devotees on various fronts, including a food chart for pilgrims. It informs about the timings for the temple's closing and opening along with the updates regarding Kerala State Road Transport Corporation's (KSRTC) bus schedules to provide ease to the devotees. "The chatbot has played a key role in emergency assistance. So far, it has handled 1,768 emergency cases, mostly medical emergencies, and has been instrumental in reuniting missing persons with their families, ensuring the safety and well-being of pilgrims," the note read. The Pathanamthitta district administration further informed that the improvements to the chatbot will be carried out in the coming week. The chatbot would be able to update about the weather, the admin said, adding that it would help devotees with real-time information so that they can plan their visit accordingly. "The Pathanamthitta District Administration is committed to continually enhancing this service. In the coming week, we will be adding weather updates to the chatbot's capabilities, providing pilgrims with real-time information to help them plan their visit more effectively," the note read. The devotees can activate the chatbot by sending "Hi" to 6238008000, the admin said, adding that the Swami Chatbot was part of their broader initiative to make use of technology to ensure that the Sabarimala pilgrimage remains safer and more efficient for the pilgrims. "The overwhelming response we've received demonstrates the bot's effectiveness in improving the pilgrimage experience and assisting pilgrims in real time," the Pathanamthitta admin said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
28 November,2024 04:13 PM IST | Pathanamthitta (Kerala) | ANIJapan's Yamanashi prefectural government plans to raise the entry fee for climbers of Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest mountain, from the current 2,000 yen to a range of 3,000 to 5,000 yen, local media reported. The proposed hike would merge the entry fee with the existing voluntary conservation cooperation charge of 1,000 yen per climber. Local communities have criticised the voluntary payment system as confusing and overly complicated, Jiji Press cited informed sources as saying. Entry policies of Mount Fuji, which straddles Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures, may see similar changes on the Shizuoka side. The Shizuoka prefectural government is considering implementing a mandatory entry fee of 3,000 to 5,000 yen starting next summer, replacing its voluntary conservation payment system, Xinhua news agency reported. Yamanashi officials have presented three potential fee increase plans to local stakeholders, proposing new entry fees of 3,000, 4,000, or 5,000 yen per climber. The changes aim to streamline payments and enhance funding for the mountain's conservation and management. Also Read: Pompeii in Italy aims to combat mass tourism with daily visitor limit This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
26 November,2024 07:19 PM IST | Japan | IANSEver thought of going on a trip with your parents and grandparents? Families in Asia Pacific (APAC), including India, are increasingly embracing intergenerational travel. From Gen Z's thirst for adventure to millennials' desire for relaxation, each generation brings its own flavour to the travel experience. People believe that intergenerational travel fosters meaningful connections and lasting memories. According to the Gen.Voyage! report by Booking.com, more than half of Indian travellers agree that this shared experience is a valuable opportunity to reconnect with loved ones. Trending destinations for intergenerational travel According to the research, Ayodhya in India is the second-most trending destination for intergenerational travel among families in APAC, with Urayasu in Japan occupying the top spot. Other trending destinations include: Uluwatu, Bali Murcia, Spain Leatherhead, United Kingdom Baku, Azerbaijan Charlotte, USA Nago-Torbole, Italy Ulverston, United Kingdom Haywards Heath, United Kingdom Factors to consider while choosing destination In APAC, some destinations are emerging as clear favourites among families for their blend of cultural allure, diverse activities and family-friendly amenities. As stated in the report, top considerations for Indians while choosing a destination for intergenerational travel are: Safety and security (44%) Affordable pricing and value for money (34%) Family-friendly attractions and activities (31%) Availability for family-friendly accommodations (30%) Accessibility for all age groups (26%) Ingredients for a memorable intergenerational trip Intergenerational travel is an opportunity to nurture family bonds and create memories that can last a lifetime. Ensuring everyone has a great time is important for a successful trip. Some key considerations include: For Indian families, clean and safe accommodations are paramount, ensuring everyone can relax and unwind. Trips need to be suitable for everyone, ensuring grandparents and children alike enjoy themselves Indians are financially savvy of their travel expenses and prioritise vacations that are value-for-money. From adventure activities to relaxing spas, a variety of activities is crucial for different ages along with food and restaurant options nearby that cater to every palette. Also Read: From cricket to F1: Why Indians are packing bags for sports in 2025
26 November,2024 06:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMigraine, an intense type of headache that also causes body fatigue, can be frustrating to deal with and make it difficult for a person to function throughout the day. While it can affect one’s ability to perform routine tasks on a normal day, experiencing migraine while travelling can be especially discomforting, given the uncertainty and unfamiliarity with surroundings. What is migraine? Not every headache is migraine. Dr Pavan Pai, a Mumbai-based Consultant Interventional Neurologist and Stroke Specialist, says, “Migraine is a severe headache causing throbbing and pulsing which can steal one's peace of mind.” He highlights the following symptoms: Nausea Headache Vomiting Dizziness Mood swings Irritability Fatigue Further explaining how migraine affects the body, he says, “Dealing with migraines can be frustrating as they can last from a few hours to several weeks. During migraine, certain chemicals in the brain become out of balance which can significantly affect the blood flow. This can further cause pain and trigger unbearable headaches and one can suffer from migraine attacks too.” “People often tend to ignore migraine as a minor inconvenience which can exacerbate your symptoms. Migraine attacks can become more frequent if not managed with proper care,” he adds. Can travelling trigger migraine? Various factors can trigger the occurrence of migraine in people. “The factors can include stress, lack of sleep, eating certain foods, hormonal changes, sudden shifts in the weather and even strong smells," informs Dr. Pai. Elaborating on how travelling can cause migraine, he says, “Sudden changes in temperature, bright lights, tiredness and strong smells in the environment can lead to migraine making it difficult to enjoy your vacation.” Dr Neeraj Singh, Consultant Endovascular Neurosurgeon, adds, "Migraines can be frustrating, especially when you are travelling. Travelling to unfamiliar places, with hours of sitting at one place on the flight, car or train, and abrupt changes in your routine can be potential triggers for a migraine.” He further informs, “Factors that can trigger migraine while travelling can include being dehydrated, unable to get a good 7 to 8 hours of sleep and stressing about the whole itinerary. While travelling, people often tend to forget to drink water or eat food which can cause headaches that can further turn into a migraine.” How to prevent migraine while travelling? To prevent this, experts suggest avoiding things that can aggravate your condition. Dr Pai shares the following tips: Wear sunglasses when the light is too brigh Drink plenty of water Take rest Maintain a consistent sleep routine. “If you start to experience migraine episodes, try moving to quiet and dark places for a few minutes until you start to feel better," he further suggests. Also Read: What is sleep tourism? Decoding this wellness and travel trend Dr Singh believes that one needs to take proactive steps while they are traveling for the betterment of their health. This can be achieved by: Staying hydrated Taking frequent breaks when necessary Managing your stress levels Trying to sleep as much as possible “If you are someone who has encountered migraine while traveling previously, then carrying your usual medications as prescribed by your doctor can help manage this pain,” he concludes. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified medical expert for personalized guidance.
26 November,2024 03:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentImagine Dil Chahta Hai without carefree landscapes of Goa, or Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara without the adventurous spirit of Spain, or Bareilly Ki Barfi without the homely charm of Bareilly. All these films and more are incomplete without places that not only lend them character but are significant to the story itself. Filmmaker Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari recognises this, believing that every place has many stories to tell. Speaking at the India International Film Tourism Conclave (IIFTC), she mentioned that every place has a soul—a fragrance, a rhythm, a story waiting to be told. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Agra, the vibrant alleys of Bareilly or the serene coastline of Konkan, Tiwari immerses herself in the cultural essence of her chosen locations, allowing them to shape her narratives. “Locations aren’t just backdrops; they’re characters in my stories,” she says. Her films, like Bareilly Ki Barfi, breathe life into small-town India, capturing its quirks and idiosyncrasies with authenticity. “Once, during a shoot, I sat reversed on a scooter while holding the camera just to capture the rawness of a busy marketplace,” she recalls with a laugh. Her passion for rooting her stories in their locales extends beyond India’s borders. Filming in Serbia for an international project was a transformative experience for her. “Serbia has a controlled, almost poetic quality to its streets. Shooting there taught me the beauty of working within constraints while still bringing my vision to life,” Ashwiny shares. Also Read: Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani’s Udaipur to Emily in Paris’ France: Here’s how set-jetting travel trend is ruling itineraries However, working abroad comes with its challenges. “Filmmaking in India often has a certain spontaneity—we can adapt and innovate on the fly. Abroad, you work with rigid schedules, permits and a precision-driven crew. It pushes you to plan meticulously, but it also opens your eyes to a whole new way of storytelling,” she explains. The contrast between the fluid dynamics of Indian sets and the structured approach abroad has shaped Ashwiny’s methodology. “In Serbia, every second of shoot time is accounted for, which can be challenging but also rewarding. Back in India, the flexibility allows for a more organic process, but that chaos has its charm,” she adds. Despite these differences, Ashwiny finds a common thread in how locations inspire her storytelling. “Every place—a small Indian town or a European city—has a unique voice. It’s my job to listen and translate that voice into a story,” she concludes.
25 November,2024 01:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe 11th edition of the Mercedes-Benz Classic Car Rally took place in spectacular style on November 24 in Bandra showcasing vintage and classic car enthusiasts's love for the car. Held in Mumbai, this year’s rally brought together an unparalleled collection of over 95 timeless Mercedes-Benz classics, with around 60 of the icons making their debut at the show, drawing record crowds to witness the grandeur and legacy of the brand with the three-pointed star. What started as a one-off event to celebrate 120 Years of Motorsport with Mercedes-Benz has turned into a behemoth of an event, with car lovers flocking to the grand streets of Mumbai from all parts of the country. The cars were laid across majestically on the sprawling, grand lawns of Taj Land’s End in Bandra, before taking on the rest of the city. With chief guest and MLA Ashish Shelar in attendance, the rally was flagged off by Mercedes-Benz India MD & CEO, Santosh Iyer, along with Lance Bennett, VP-Sales & Marketing, and Emmanuel Bacquet, curator of MAC - Museum Art & Cars in Germany and head of the Selection Committee for Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. Among the standout highlights was the much-anticipated Supercharged Class, showcasing the iconic Kompressor (German for supercharger) models from the 1920s and 1930s that ushered in the age of superchargers pioneered by Mercedes-Benz. Spectators were enthralled by the elegance of the 500K, the sheer presence of the 540K, and the engineering marvel that is the 630K—each a masterpiece of Mercedes-Benz innovation and craftsmanship. The 2024 MBCCR marked the first time in history that all three of these titans were present at the same location, making the event all the more grand and memorable. The Superlimousine Class provided a rare glimpse into Mercedes-Benz’s opulent history. Cars like the Nurburg, 600 Grosser, and the multiple 300 Adenauer variants turned heads with their majestic proportions and stately grace, offering a window into an era of unrivalled luxury and prestige. Another head turner featured in this class was a 1000SEL (V126), which drew hundreds of pictures from fans and enthusiasts alike. The Bruno Sacco Class paid tribute to the legendary Italian designer, spotlighting his timeless creations. This class was a celebration of design excellence, featuring iconic models that bore Sacco’s visionary touch, reminding enthusiasts of his transformative influence on Mercedes-Benz aesthetics. This includes the first-generation SLK, the legendary G-Wagen and the timeless SEC (C126) S-Class coupe, which is largely considered as one of his greatest works. Adding a unique charm to this year’s rally was the Mile Munchers Class, which honoured participants who drove down in their classic beauties from distant locations like Goa, Lucknow, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mysore and Rajkot. Their journeys, spanning hundreds of kilometres, epitomised the enduring spirit and reliability of these classics and their owners’ unbridled passion for restoring these legends to Concours standards. Some of the beauties that made the drive to Mumbai were the 190 (W201), the 240D (W123) and E220 (W124). Perseus Bandrawalla, curator of MBCCR said “The MBCCR is a museum on wheels, showcasing cars right from the world’s first automobile; the 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen (replica), to the state-of-the-art modern classic; the SLS AMG with its iconic gullwing doors. You can practically see the evolution of automobiles over the last 130 years.” Santosh Iyer, MD & CEO of Mercedes-Benz India had this to say about the rally’s 11th edition, “We are thrilled to celebrate the 2024 edition of the Mercedes-Benz Classic Car Rally, a true celebration of automotive history, craftsmanship, and innovation. For over a decade, this event has become the highlight of Mumbai’s winter season. MBCCR continues to bridge the past, present, and future of automotive excellence. I am proud to see the legacy of Mercedes-Benz preserved through this vibrant community, and it is inspiring to witness the dedication of collectors and restorers who keep these timeless vehicles in pristine condition.” Hormazd Sorabjee, editor of Autocar India said, “The Mercedes-Benz Classic Car Rally is the backbone of the classic car movement in India, giving rise to a new genre of classic car collectors and enthusiasts. Autocar India is proud to be associated with such a passionate community of classic car enthusiasts.” With its grandeur and impeccable curation, the 11th edition of the Mercedes-Benz Classic Car Rally has been a resounding success, reiterating its position as the gold standard for vintage and classic car rallies worldwide. While this year was definitely the grandest year yet, we are likely to see many more stunning Mercedes-Benz classics at next year’s MBCCR as the classic car bug continues to spread amongst India’s burgeoning community of auto enthusiasts.
25 November,2024 09:51 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe famous Chinar boat race 2024 was organised on Saturday in J&K's Dal Lake by the Army. A spokesman of the Army said that the much-anticipated Chinar Boat Race 2024 was successfully organised in collaboration with White Globe NGO and the support of the Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA). "The race, which took place from Ghat No. 23 to Char Chinar and back, was a spectacular event that celebrated the rich culture and tradition of Kashmir, while also promoting conservation efforts for Dal Lake. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from 60 boats, competing fiercely for the coveted prizes. The winner of the race was awarded a cash prize of Rs 10,000 along with a prestigious trophy. The second and third positions were awarded Rs 7,500 and Rs 5,000 respectively," the spokesman added. The spokesman said consolation prizes were distributed to the top 20 participants, recognising their efforts and participation in the event. The Chinar Boat Race 2024 aimed to highlight not only the athleticism and competitive spirit of the participants but also the importance of protecting Kashmir's water bodies. "The collaboration between the Indian Army, White Globe, and LCMA underscored the significance of maintaining the ecological health of Dal Lake while fostering community engagement through traditional sports," the spokesman said. "The event drew a large audience, with both locals and tourists lining the shores of Dal Lake to cheer on the participants. It served as a testament to the region's vibrant culture and the strong bond between the people and the natural beauty of Kashmir," a statement by the Army said. The Army has been organising sports and entertainment events in J&K as part of its endeavour to build cordial and closer Army-public relationships. This has helped the Army serve the people better in peace times during natural calamities like earthquakes, floods etc and also encourage the local youth to seek an honourable profession by joining the Army. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
23 November,2024 04:13 PM IST | Srinagar | IANSAfter hosting an impressive 47 lakh devotees this season, the Badrinath Nagar Panchayat initiated a comprehensive cleaning drive to restore the sacred shrine and its surroundings to their pristine condition ahead of the winter closure. A dedicated team of 50 'Paryavaran Mitra' conducted the cleanup, collecting 1.5 tonnes of waste from key areas such as Brahm Kapal, Astha Path, Tapt Kund, Main Bazaar, and Mana village. This effort underscored the commitment of local authorities to maintaining the sanctity and cleanliness of the revered Char Dham pilgrimage site. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, a consistent advocate for cleanliness at Char Dham shrines, praised the initiative. Highlighting the importance of sustainable waste management, the municipality reported earnings of Rs 8 lakh from the disposal of 110 tonnes of inorganic waste collected during the Yatra season. The post-season cleanup at Badrinath Dham exemplifies the adage "Cleanliness is next to godliness," blending devotion with environmental responsibility. Earlier, on Monday, November 18, the sacred thrones of Uddhav, Kuber, and Shankaracharya began their winter journey from Badrinath Dham to their designated locations. According to temple officials, the palanquins, accompanied by the tunes of an army band and rights holders, departed for their winter sojourn. They halted at Pandukeshwar for the night, where Uddhav Ji and Kuber Ji will remain in the Yogadhyan Temple for winter worship, allowing devotees to offer prayers to Lord Badri Vishal during the off-season. The throne of Shankaracharya Ji has been placed in the Narsingh Temple at Joshimath, while Narad Ji will perform worship in Badrinath Dham, adhering to the scriptures that dictate six months of worship by humans and six months by gods. Meanwhile, the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee, in collaboration with the District Police Administration, reported a record-breaking influx of pilgrims during the 2024 Yatra season. Badrinath Dham welcomed 14,35,341 visitors from May 12 to November 17, including 11,170 on the final day. Kedarnath Dham received 16,52,076 pilgrims between May 10 and November 3, with 1,26,393 traveling by helicopter. Additionally, 1,83,722 pilgrims visited Shri Hemkunt Sahib and Lokpal Tirtha Shri Laxman Mandir before their gates closed on October 10. Temple authorities and local administration lauded these numbers as a testament to the successful management of the Yatra. "These figures for the year 2024 have been released by the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee with the cooperation of the District Police Administration," the official statement read.
21 November,2024 01:32 PM IST | Badrinath (Uttarakhand) | ANIImagine being surrounded by enthusiastic sports fans, watching your favourite individual or team play live, with the sounds of cheers echoing everyone’s love for the game. More and more Indians are seeking this thrilling experience, opting for stadiums instead of screens. Sports enthusiasts are not hesitating to travel to another city or country to engage more actively with what some people call a ‘once in a lifetime experience’ of witnessing a game live. Why? Simply because of their love and passion for the sport and the team which has either defined their childhood or played an important role in their lives. Harsh Jagtap, a Bangalore-based creative professional, is one such sports enthusiast. He shares, “I went to Manchester to watch the team I supported since I was 8 years old. It was the best experience of my life, watching my favourite team win the match.” Ask him why he chose to travel to another country for something he could have easily witnessed from the comfort of his home, and he is quick to say, “The connection with your boyhood team is very different, and as a true fan and supporter since a very young age, it has always been a dream to watch my team play live in the stadium. The atmosphere is electrifying, which you don’t get sitting at home.” Harshit Agarwal, an ardent cricket follower backs this sentiment. He says, “I watched an ODI Cricket World Cup match live in Chennai in November 2023. Watching a match at home is nothing compared to the atmosphere at a stadium. The excitement, loud cheers and just the energy make the experience amazing.” While some fans prefer a specific sport to watch live, others don’t mind travelling for different games. Sarah*, a Mumbai-based writer, reveals, “Last year, I had the opportunity to travel to Sri Lanka for the Asia Cup, and I’ve since visited several Indian cities to attend major cricket, football and hockey events. This includes the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy and the ODI World Cup, among many others. My travels have taken me to cities like Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Dharamsala, and New Delhi, where I have had the privilege of experiencing the excitement of live sports in different parts of India.” Also Read: Planning to attend Coldplay Ahmedabad concert? Here are 5 places to visit in the city Sharing the experience of live sports that enthusiasts place far above the experience of watching matches on screen, she says, “I truly believe, as a fan, watching a sporting event live offers an entirely different experience that cannot be replicated on screen. The palpable energy of the crowd, the intense atmosphere in the stadium and the thrill of witnessing key moments in real time are all part of the magic. There is a unique sense of connection to the event, the players, and fellow fans that television simply cannot provide. To put it simply, watching them live is about immersing myself in the moment, and creating memories beyond what a screen can offer." This travel trend, called sports tourism, is expected to prevail in 2025. According to the Travel Trends 2025 Report by Skyscanner, 54 per cent of Indians between the age group of 25-34 (and 53 per cent of all Indians) plan to travel either domestically or internationally to see a sporting event next year. Whether it's cricket, football, F1 or other global tournaments, sports tourism is hitting an all-time high, with nearly two-thirds (63 per cent) of Indians planning to soak in the experience for entertainment purposes and 59 per cent of fans wanting to travel for the excitement of live sports. For half (50 per cent) of Indian fans, a chance to see their favourite sporting celebrities in action is a motivator to witness these grand spectacles in person. Mohit Joshi, Travel and Destinations Expert at Skyscanner, says, “Indian sports enthusiasts are gearing up for a thrilling year of travel in 2025. Travellers are leaning towards switching their couches for a seat in the stadium. We are seeing a lot of positive data in terms of sports-related travel, with people keen to support their favourite teams with fellow fans.” Which sports are people willing to travel for? Cricket and football are popular options among sports enthusiasts here. Formula 1 is gradually rising the ranks as its popularity grows among Indian audiences. People are also willing to travel for other sports like tennis and hockey. Jagtap shares, “I would happily travel to watch football, tennis and chess live. I have even developed a new interest in watching F1.” Sarah reveals, “I would be more than willing to travel for cricket, hockey, football and athletics. Each of these offers a distinct atmosphere and excitement that makes attending a live event truly special. Cricket, with its rich traditions and intense fan base, offers an unparalleled sense of community, especially during high-stakes matches like the World Cup or even the IPL. Hockey, known for its fast pace and physicality, creates an electric atmosphere in stadiums. Athletics, with the drama of individual plus team performance, is a sight best witnessed live, especially during major events like the Olympics or World Championships or CWG. Football, with its global appeal and passionate crowds, offers an intense 90 minutes that’s best experienced in person.” Sports and tourism While fans are travelling to other cities and countries to watch sports events, they are also planning their trips in ways that allow them to explore the destination beyond the event. For Agarwal, this is a choice depending on the situation. He says, “I’ve done both: planned a trip to also visit tourist places in that area, and visited just for the match. It all depends on the destination, time constraints, etc.” “While attending a live match in another city, I do try to plan my trip to explore other tourist attractions, but this largely depends on my hectic work schedule. If time allows, I enjoy making the most of the opportunity to discover the local culture, adding to the overall experience. However, my primary focus remains on the game itself, as it's the main reason for the trip,” Sarah concludes. India is often regarded as a country of sports lovers, especially cricket. As global broadcasting, increased marketing and behind-the-scenes series and events bring other sports closer to Indian audiences, their keen interest and drive to feel closer to these games is giving rise to sports tourism. *Name changed or only first name used Also Read: What is sleep tourism? Decoding this wellness and travel trend
20 November,2024 11:42 AM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainOver 86 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance at the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine atop Trikuta Hills of Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district so far this year, a senior official of the shrine board said. The official added that the inflow of pilgrims is expected to increase further as the year draws to a close, with the figure likely to surpass 95 lakh by the end of December. "Till yesterday, this year, 86 lakh pilgrims visited the cave shrine and paid obeisance," Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Anshul Garg, said. He said that the number of pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi has been rising each year. "Last year, the yatra set a new record of 95 lakh, surpassing a significant milestone in 2023. It is expected to pick up further in the coming days," he said. As per the monthly figures, a total of 616,609 devotees visited Mata Vaishno Devi in January this year, followed by 432,925 in February, 861,517 in March, 955,575 in April, 1,164,301 in May, 1,115,719 in June, 765,726 in July, 573,730 in August, 678,484 in September, and 874,657 in October. The daily pilgrim count averaged between 14,000 and 18,000, in the latter half of October, due to the festive season, officials said. Also Read: Ayodhya, Varanasi, Amarnath Yatra: What’s fuelling the rise of spiritual tourism in India? Following Diwali and other festivals, daily pilgrim counts have increased again, currently ranging between 28,000 and 38,000, they said. From 13.95 lakh in 1986, when the shrine board took over the affairs of the shrine for better management, there has been a steady increase in pilgrim footfall with each passing year, touching an all-time high of 1.04 crore in 2012, against 1.01 crore the previous year (2011). The shrine has, in recent years, seen a few additions in terms of facilities, including a skywalk at Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan, a Durga Bhavan, new community kitchen and railway registration centres. The skywalk and a remodelled Parvati Bhavan were inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu. Moreover, the shrine's base camp in Katra now boasts a state-of-the-art call centre, which operates round-the-clock and manages nearly 2,500 calls every day from pilgrims across the world. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
18 November,2024 04:03 PM IST | Jammu and Kashmir | PTIThe famous Pompeii archaeological park recently introduced a daily limit of 20,000 visitors, the latest Italian tourist hotspot to take action against overcrowding. The "experimental" scheme will see visitors to the UNESCO World Heritage Site required to buy named tickets which, in the summer, will be divided into morning and afternoon slots. Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the director of Pompeii, told AFP the measure was designed to better manage crowd numbers, leading to a more "sustainable" growth. "The idea is not to close Pompeii but to expand Pompeii and better manage the flow," he said at the launch of the scheme at the historic site near Naples in southern Italy. Last year more than four million people visited Pompeii, an ancient Roman city buried when Mount Vesuvius erupted nearly 2,000 years ago -- the vast majority during the summer months. Organisers expect this year's numbers to be even higher. Some 3.84 million people visited between January and October -- including a peak of more than 36,000 on one Sunday when entry was free. Zuchtriegel said the numbers caused concerns about visitor and staff safety and about the protection of the unique site, where many of the buildings -- and even some bodies of the estimated 3,000 victims -- were perfectly preserved after the eruption. "We want to guarantee all visitors a high-quality experience. It must never be mass tourism," he said. Between April 1 and October 31, a maximum of 15,000 visitors will be allowed in from 9:00am to 12:00pm, and 5,000 from 12:00pm to 5:30pm. Tourism worldwide has surged since the Covid-19 pandemic but the numbers of people flocking to top sites has sparked warnings about potential damage to irreplaceable buildings or monuments, and protests by local communities under pressure. Also Read: To travel or not? Decoding the overtourism and irresponsible tourism catastrophe Italy is the fourth most popular tourist destination in the world, welcoming 57.2 million foreign tourists last year who spent $55.9 billion, according to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Earlier this year, locals in Barcelona staged a protest against overtourism, asking tourists to “go back”. Similar protests were also seen in Spain’s Canary Islands. To combat overtourism, many popular destinations have imposed certain restrictions like charging an entry fee, limiting visitor numbers, etc. The city of Venice earlier this year introduced a five-euro entry fee for day trippers during peak periods, in a bid to entice tourists to visit during quieter periods. Walking the newly renovated "Path of Love" on the Cinque Terre, where at high season human traffic jams form along the trails between the region's colourful coastal villages, also requires a ticket. Earlier this year, Mount Fuji in Japan had also imposed an entre fee for all climbers to limit tourism. (With inputs from AFP)
18 November,2024 01:09 PM IST | Pompeii | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
