Srinagar, Jun 25: National Conference (NC) president, Dr Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday urged the divisional administration to ensure meticulous and comprehensive arrangements for the upcoming month of Muharram-ul-Haram, with special emphasis on the smooth and dignified observance of Youm-e-Ashura.
In a statement issued here, Dr Abdullah stressed the importance of ensuring uninterrupted civic services throughout the holy month, particularly in Shia-populated areas and around all Imam Bargahs. He highlighted the need for round-the-clock healthcare facilities, adequate ration distribution, well-organised transport and ambulance services, and effective crowd and procession management.
Emphasising the sanctity of Muharram and the profound spiritual significance it holds, he noted that planning should extend beyond Ashura, encompassing the entire holy month.
Acknowledging the ongoing efforts of the government to facilitate Muharram observances, he called for expedited repair and maintenance of roads and footpaths in Shia-inhabited areas such as Zadibal, Bota Kadal, Chattabal, Hassanabad, Bemina, and Khushipora in Srinagar, as well as in other districts.
The NC chief underscored the urgency of ensuring proper street lighting and the timely availability of essential supplies such as rice, sugar, atta, cooking oil, LPG, and firewood. He stressed the need to accelerate the planning of health camps and to ensure the presence of mobile medical units and ambulances along procession routes to address any emergency.
Dr Farooq further emphasised the importance of launching special sanitation drives in and around Imam Bargahs throughout the mourning period. He urged the administration to establish dedicated control rooms to oversee logistical coordination.
Calling for heightened administrative alertness, especially on Youm-e-Ashura, he stressed the need for seamless coordination among departments to guarantee that the day is observed peacefully, respectfully, and without inconvenience to mourners.
Meanwhile, the NC has called for comprehensive and effective arrangements in connection with the annual Urs observance of Hazrat Mirza Akamal-ud-Din Kamil Badakhshi (RA) to be observed at his shrine at Mirza Kamil sahib, Hawal.
The party’s Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq emphasised the importance of ensuring all necessary facilities for the devotees expected to participate in the Urs observance. He urged the concerned departments to make adequate provisions for sanitation, uninterrupted power and water supply, traffic regulation, and overall crowd management at the shrine site.
Sadiq appealed to the administration to maintain close coordination with shrine management to facilitate a smooth and spiritually enriching Urs celebration.
