SRINAGAR, Nov 17 — Lakhs of Muslims thronged Hazratbal and other shrines in the valley on the occasion of "Meraj-e-Alam" since yesterday. Pilgrims had "ziarat" or glimpses of the holy relics of Prophet Mohammad after prayers at Hazratbal here and at some other shrines of the valley.

A large number of people converged at the reverred shrine of Hazratbal last night and offered special prayers in connection with the celebration. Holy relics of the Prophet were displayed at the shrine after every prayer today. Adequate arrangements were made at Hazratbal to transport pilgrims from different parts of the city and other areas of the valley.

Similar congregations were held at various other shrines, including Jenab Sahib Soura, Shehri Kalashpora and Lal Bazar in Srinagar, in addition to other places like Pinjoora in Shopian, Khiram Sirhama, Bandipore, Mechama, Asar-e-Sharief Baramulla, Kabamarg and Dangerpora Narwara.

An official spokesmen said here today that the administration had made elaborate arrangements to facilitate the devotees. Various departments had established their camps at Hazratbal and other places.

The Works Minister, Ghulam Mohiuddin Shah, the Minister of State for Health, Mr Govind Ram, the Minister of State for Revenue, Mr Safdar Ali Beigh, and the Minister of State for Home, Mushtaq Ahmad Lone, inspected the arrangements at Hazratbal. Mr Ghulam Mohiuddin Shah took stock of the arrangements at the shrine in connection with the celebrations.