The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has temporarily suspended new registrations for the pilgrimage until Thursday morning due to an overwhelming surge of devotees for the New Year. Thousands of pilgrims have arrived, causing peak crowd density at the Katra base camp and along the trekking route. Authorities cite the suspension as necessary for crowd management, visitor safety, and uninterrupted arrangements. Pilgrims, especially those with children and the elderly, are advised to delay their journeys. The board has increased security, health staff, and sanitation teams to manage the influx.