Srinagar, March 27: Ahead of the upcoming religious observances of Shab-e-Qadr, Jumat-ul-Vida, Navratri, and Eid-ul-Fitr, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has launched a comprehensive initiative to ensure cleanliness, sanitation and smooth pedestrian and vehicular movement across the city.
SMC Commissioner Dr Owais Ahmed has directed officials to implement extensive sanitation and facility management measures at major religious sites, ensuring a hygienic and well-organised environment for worshippers. The key preparations and special arrangements include enhanced sanitation efforts. “Intensive cleaning drives will be carried out at Hazratbal, Jenab Sahib Soura, Dastgeer Sahib Khanyar, Imam Bargah Zadibal, Shahi Hamdan Sahib, Makhdoom Sahib, and prominent Hindu temples such as Sharika Devi Temple, Durga Nag Temple and Purashyar Mandir,” a statement from the SMC said. “Temporary mobile toilet units will be installed at key religious locations and will remain operational throughout the festive period.”
It said that the anti-encroachment wing has been instructed to remove obstructions, to ensure unhindered pedestrian and vehicular movement in busy areas. “The Electrical division will ensure all streetlights around religious sites are fully functional, with dedicated teams on standby for immediate repairs,” the statement said, adding that given the large gatherings at Hazratbal shrine, a dog-catching squad will be deployed during Shab-e-Qadr, Jumat-ul-Vida and Eid-ul-Fitr to prevent stray animals from entering the shrine premises. “Additional sanitation workers will also be stationed to maintain cleanliness,” it said. With these measures in place, the SMC reaffirms its commitment to providing a clean, well-managed, and safe environment for the people of Srinagar during these significant religious occasions. For queries, grievances, or updates, residents can contact the SMC’s 24×7 Control Room via the following helplines–18001807038, 0194-2474499, 0194-2470465.