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JAMMU, INDIA, August 7, 2008: (PTI): A record number of 4.3 million pilgrims from across the country have visited the Mata Vaishnovdevi cave shrine since January this year, officials said here on Wednesday. While only 4 million devotees had visited the shrine during the corresponding period last year, registering an increase of 300.000 pilgrims, they said.

During the month of July, as many as 500.000 pilgrims paid their obeisance at the shrine despite disturbed conditions prevailing due to "Amarnath land row" in the region. On average, 15,000 devotees were daily reaching the base camp at Katra for their pilgrimage to the shrine, located in Trikuta hills in Reasi district.

Shri Mata Vaishnavdevi Shrine Board, along with local organizations, is organising elaborate security arrangements with the police department to ensure a safe journey for the pilgrims.

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