GANDERBAL: A high-level preparatory meeting was convened here today under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, to review and finalise arrangements for the annual Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela 2026, scheduled for 22nd June, 2026.
Reviewing the preparedness, the DC noted that the mela witnessed a footfall of more than 15000 devotees in 2025 and said that adequate arrangements should be put in place this year to cater large gatherings. Devotees are expected to start arriving from 21st June, with the main congregation on 22nd June.
It was informed that the Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple premises and the Central University of Kashmir campus at Tulmulla have been designated as the main accommodation sites. Adequate tents, bedding and essential facilities will be put in place well in advance.
The DC directed the R&B department to ensure timely completion of all tendering processes so that transit camps are fully equipped before the arrival of pilgrims.
The Irrigation and Flood Control department were directed to expedite desilting and cleaning of the Tulmulla Nallah, particularly in areas requiring manual intervention. Sanitation arrangements will be jointly managed by the Municipal Council and Rural Development department, with strict measures in place to maintain cleanliness across the area.
KPDCL was directed to ensure uninterrupted power supply with sufficient backup at all venues and along approach roads. Street lighting and mobile charging facilities are to be made fully operational ahead of the mela.
Reviewing security and medical preparedness, the DC was informed that comprehensive arrangements are being put in place by the district police, SDRF and traffic authorities. A joint control room will be established for effective coordination. The Health Department will deploy ambulances, specialist doctors and set up a dedicated medical camp at the shrine and other designated venues.
Assistant Regional Transport Officer and District Traffic Police were directed to prepare a comprehensive transport and traffic management plan to ensure hassle free movement of pilgrims during the Mela.
The Floriculture department was directed to ensure beautification of the temple surroundings, while the Social Welfare department was directed to provide facilities for differently-abled pilgrims, including wheelchairs. BSNL and other telecom agencies were asked to strengthen network connectivity in and around the Mela area.
The Food Safety Department was directed to ensure availability of adequate ration, along with availability of LPG within the premises. Food Safety department was tasked with Market checking and monitoring throughout the Mela period.
Issues raised by representatives of the Dharmarath Trust and Samaj Sudhar Committee as well as representatives of Kashmiri Pandit community were taken up during the meeting, and concerned officers were directed to resolve them on priority.
The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police, Sudhanshu Dhama; Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Syed Faheem Bihaqi; Superintending Engineer PWD (R&B), Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Chief Planning Officer, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Education Officer and other officers and officials of district administration besides representatives of the Dharmarath Trust and Samaj Sudhar Committee.