Srinagar, Jun 10 : Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday reviewed preparations for the annual Amarnath Yatra and directed all departments to ensure timely completion of infrastructure and pilgrim-related arrangements ahead of the pilgrimage beginning next month.
Chairing a high-level meeting here, Sinha said the 57-day pilgrimage will commence on July 3 and conclude on August 28.
“Our collective goal is to ensure a safe, seamless and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage for every devotee of Baba Barfani,” he said.
Officials informed the meeting that pilgrim registrations were progressing steadily and the turnout this year was expected to be higher than in recent years.
The lieutenant governor stressed the need for a coordinated approach among all departments and agencies involved in managing the yatra.
Reviewing infrastructure works, Sinha was informed that tracks along both the Baltal and Pahalgam routes had been widened to around 12 feet and the remaining works were progressing as per schedule.
He directed the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and other agencies to make both routes fully operational by June 25 and ensure installation of crash barriers and hand railings at vulnerable locations.
Sinha also reviewed arrangements related to road connectivity, sanitation, drinking water, power supply, healthcare, disaster management, transportation, accommodation centres and telecom services.
He directed authorities to enhance holding capacities at key locations, increase the number of toilets and ambulances, and strengthen disaster preparedness measures.
Deputy Commissioners of Ganderbal and Anantnag were asked to inspect the tracks, identify slippery stretches and shooting-stone-prone areas, and install adequate warning signages.
The lieutenant governor also directed that only authorised and quality tents be allowed at camps, while all pilgrims and service providers must possess valid registration and RFID cards for movement along the yatra routes.
He instructed telecom service providers to ensure seamless connectivity along the pilgrimage route and asked all departments to establish their respective camps and facilities by June 20.
Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, Mandeep K Bhandari, presented a detailed review of the arrangements made by various departments for the smooth conduct of the yatra.(KNS)
