Anantnag: Anshul Garg on Saturday reviewed preparations for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026 during a visit to Pahalgam, directing all departments to ensure timely completion of works and seamless facilities for pilgrims.
Chairing a review meeting at Pahalgam Club, the Divisional Commissioner assessed arrangements along the Pahalgam axis and other Yatra-related locations. The meeting was attended by Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat and senior officers from various departments.
Reviewing arrangements by the Jal Shakti Department, Garg directed officials to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply at camps, halting stations and along the pilgrimage route, besides installing adequate storage facilities and monitoring water quality.
He instructed Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply at camps and service establishments and maintain adequate backup arrangements.
The Divisional Commissioner directed road construction agencies, including BRO, to expedite maintenance and repair works and keep all roads connected with the Yatra safe and motorable. He also asked them to explore early installation of a two-way bridge at Sarbal and speed up construction of rain shelters along the track leading to the Holy Cave.
Reviewing healthcare preparedness, Garg directed the Health Department to ensure adequate deployment of medical personnel, availability of medicines, ambulances and emergency response systems at designated locations.
Municipal authorities and the Rural Development Department were instructed to strengthen sanitation and waste management measures at camps and along the Yatra route. CEO PDA, SDM Pahalgam and Executive Officer Municipal Committee Pahalgam were also directed to formulate a strategy for maintaining cleanliness in Pahalgam town and adjoining areas.
The Fire and Emergency Services Department was directed to keep firefighting and rescue arrangements in place, while telecom service providers were asked to ensure uninterrupted communication facilities during the Yatra period.
Garg stressed close coordination among departments and directed them to complete all assigned works within stipulated timelines. He also asked departments to ensure RFID cards are issued to service providers well in advance to facilitate their movement on the Yatra track.
The Divisional Commissioner reviewed transport management plans, stocking of essential commodities, on-the-spot registration facilities and other arrangements related to the pilgrimage.
Earlier, he interacted with stakeholders and service providers, including representatives of pony operators, tent associations, taxi operators and hoteliers, who projected various concerns and suggestions regarding the annual pilgrimage.
Assuring them that genuine concerns would be addressed, Garg described service providers as an integral part of Yatra management and appreciated their role in ensuring comfort and convenience for pilgrims over the years.
Later, he visited Chandanwari to inspect on-ground arrangements and reviewed the progress of ongoing works. He directed executing agencies to ensure timely completion of all pending works and maintain high standards in essential services and public utilities.
The Divisional Commissioner also inspected the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at Pahalgam and reviewed sewage and waste treatment management. He stressed the importance of environmental sustainability and directed concerned agencies to ensure scientific and efficient waste disposal.
Concluding his visit, Garg inspected the Nunwan Base Camp and reviewed facilities being installed for pilgrims. He directed concerned agencies to ensure all necessary infrastructure is put in place well before the commencement of the Yatra.
Reiterating the administration’s commitment to the successful conduct of SANJY-2026, the Divisional Commissioner called for coordinated efforts by departments, stakeholders and service providers to ensure a safe, smooth and spiritually enriching pilgrimage experience for devotees.
