HUDD incorporates modern technology to enhance Yatra experience

Srinagar, August 03: Jammu & Kashmir Housing & Urban Development Department (HUDD), in association with Swaaha, has introduced several digital innovations aimed at making the Yatra journey safer and more informed for pilgrims.
These solutions, including the Digital kiosk, website ZeroWasteYatra.com and the YatraMitra app, offer comprehensive support and information to yatris, marking a significant shift towards digital inclusion for the first time in the yatra’s history.
This digital intervention is new and crucial for yatris, providing easy access to help and information like never before. The crucial step taken by HUDD and Swaaha in embracing technology has not only enhanced the pilgrimage experience but also set a precedent for future yatras.
The ZeroWasteYatra.com and YatraMitra app serves as a digital companion for pilgrims, providing essential features that streamline the Yatra. Available for both Android and iOS, the app offers detailed information about the pilgrimage, guidelines, and route maps, while website provides real-time updates on weather, route changes, and vital announcements, ensuring pilgrims stay informed ensuring that pilgrims are well-prepared.
It also includes a list of helpline numbers for emergencies, interactive maps indicating important landmarks, medical camps, and lodging facilities, and a feature for reporting garbage along the route, reinforcing HUDD’s commitment to a clean and sustainable environment. The feedback feature allows pilgrims to share their experiences and suggestions, helping organizers improve arrangements.
“The introduction of the YatraMitra app and ZeroWasteYatra.com is part of our ongoing efforts to modernize the Yatra digitally and promote environmental stewardship,” said Ms. Mandeep Kaur, IAS,Commissioner Secretary, JKHUDD. “Our aim with these digital innovations is to ensure that every pilgrim has access to timely and accurate information, enhancing their safety and overall experience during the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra.”
A digital touch screen at Pantha Chowk base camp, Srinagar, adds another layer of support, serving as a vital resource for pilgrims at a key location.
While highlighting the importance of digital inclusion, one of the yatris shared, “I found the YatraMitra app incredibly useful. The detailed maps especially were of great help, and being able to report garbage helped me feel like I was contributing to the cause while the entire experience kept Yatra much organized and enjoyable,” said Manoj Kumar, a Yatri from Delhi.