JAMMU, JULY 22: In a significant development, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, and Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Jammu zone, Mukesh Singh, conducted a comprehensive review of the arrangements for the upcoming annual Baba Buda AmarnathJiYatra.
The meeting, attended by concerned Deputy Commissioners, officers, and civil society members, discussed various aspects to ensure a smooth and secure pilgrimage.
Representatives from multiple departments, including Police, Traffic, Health, Public Works Department (PWD), Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL), and Jal Shakti, along with members from Baba Amarnath and Buda AmarnathYatriNiyas, participated in the meeting. Moreover, Deputy Commissioners of Poonch, Rajouri, and Reasi, along with SSPs, contributed to the discussions through video conferencing.
As per the office bearers of Baba Amarnath and Buda AmarnathYatriNiyas, this year’s yatra is scheduled to commence on August 18 and conclude on August 27.
During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner reviewed various arrangements, including security measures, transportation of pilgrims, provisions for langers (community kitchens), medical facilities, sanitation, water and power supply, traffic management, and lodging and boarding facilities for the pilgrims.
The Deputy Commissioner of Poonch shared details about the identified locations for accommodating the pilgrims in the district. The Div Com emphatically instructed the DC Poonch to ensure that all necessary facilities are in place to provide a safe and comfortable stay for the Yatris. He stressed the importance of hygienic food, regular water and power supply, and improved sanitation at all designated places.
The Chief Engineer of PWD was directed to take immediate steps to fill potholes and carry out blacktopping of roads leading to the Shrine, with the aim of enhancing transportation for the Yatris.
In the pursuit of a seamless pilgrimage experience, the Divisional Commissioner emphasized the need for coordination and directed the availability of mobile toilets and medical facilities at various en-route stations such as Akhnoor, Nowshera, Sundarbani, Rajouri, and Mandi-Poonch.
Regarding the further journey of Buda Amarnath pilgrims to the revered Shiv Khori Shrine, the Div Com instructed the Deputy Commissioner of Reasi to make all necessary arrangements for this segment of the Yatra.
Addressing the paramount aspect of security during the pilgrimage, the ADGP issued directives to SSPs to implement comprehensive security measures. The primary focus is to ensure the safety and well-being of all pilgrims throughout the Yatra. The ADGP stressed the significance of deploying an adequate number of police personnel along the route, fortifying security checkpoints, and maintaining strict vigilance at all times.
