Tobacco Product Sale & Use Prohibited In Katra

The Jammu administration has enforced a comprehensive ban on the sale, possession, and use of cigarettes and other tobacco products in Katra, home to the revered Vaishno Devi temple. This measure aims to uphold the sanctity and cleanliness of the religious destination, which attracts thousands of pilgrims monthly.

Implemented under Section 144, the ban encompasses all tobacco forms, including cigarettes and gutka, from Numai and Panthal check posts to Bhawan via the Tara Court area. It extends the existing prohibition on meat and alcohol sales and consumption in Katra and its vicinity, ensuring a tobacco-free environment throughout the region.

The administration plans stringent checks to ensure compliance and vows strict penalties for violators. Local vendors and shopkeepers have been notified of the new regulations and are expected to adhere to them immediately.

Katra, nestled in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, serves as the base camp for pilgrims heading to the revered Vaishno Devi temple, drawing a daily influx of 30,000 to 40,000 devotees, surging to millions during Navratri. The administration's ban on tobacco products is a crucial measure to prioritize the health and sentiments of these pilgrims. Previously, the sale of meat and alcohol was prohibited to respect religious sentiments.

Located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, Katra is a quaint town renowned as the gateway for pilgrims embarking on the sacred journey to the revered Vaishno Devi temple. Situated amidst the Trikuta Mountains' foothills, Katra marks the commencement of the trek to the holy shrine, drawing millions of devotees annually. The town offers a plethora of amenities, including accommodations, guesthouses, and dining options, to cater to the influx of visitors.

EE News Desk

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