PAHALGAM: Director General Rural Sanitation, Anoo Malhotra, conducted a two-day visit to the Pahalgam axis to review and enhance the sanitation measures in place for pilgrims of Shri Amarnathji Yatra.
During her visit, the DG actively engaged with the pilgrims and distributed cloth bags to promote the use of eco-friendly alternatives and reduce plastic waste. She emphasized the importance of sustainable practices and urged upon the pilgrims to contribute towards maintaining the pristine environment of the holy shrine.
She also inspected the water quality at Water ATMs installed at Nunwan and Chandanwari base camps. Ensuring the availability of safe and clean drinking water to the pilgrims is a top priority of the IT administration, she added.
The visit included a detailed inspection of the waste management facilities.
Anoo Malhotra assessed the efficiency of waste collection and processing mechanisms, ensuring that they align with the objectives of sustainable sanitation and zero landfill.
Furthermore, the DG visited several langars (community kitchens) to gather direct feedback from the langar operators regarding the sanitation services being made available for them. This interaction provided valuable insights into the challenges faced and the necessary improvements to further enhance the overall experience for the pilgrims.
At Chandwari, Anoo Malhotra interacted with the sanitation workers, and supervisors and had detailed feedback from the nodal officer Chandanwari. She also sought feedback from the pilgrims returning from the holy cave regarding the status of sanitation services.
Nodal Officer Chandanwari, Mohammad Iqbal Daing, briefed the DG about different initiatives being taken up to achieve sustainable sanitation and zero landfill.
The DG also felicitated Faisal Ahmad, Sanitation Supervisor, in recognition of his exemplary service and commitment. Faisal remained stationed at Nunwan basecamp ensuring top-notch sanitation facilities for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatris, skipping his own Nikkah Ceremony, which he attended virtually.
In recognition of his exceptional dedication, Faisal was awarded a certificate of outstanding commitment and a shawl as a token of appreciation.
DG was accompanied by ACP, Zaheer Abas, Nodal Officer, Pahalgam Axis, Ashfeen Ali, Nodal Officer Nunwan Basecamp, Mudasir Gul, Nodal Officer, Chandanwari, Mohammad Iqbal Daing and other officials.
