Anantnag: Deputy Commissioner Anantnag and Yatra Officer for the Pahalgam axis, Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, on Monday conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra track and key transit locations up to Sheshnag to review preparations for the forthcoming pilgrimage.
The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by senior officers and representatives of various departments and agencies, including the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA), Jal Shakti Department, Public Works Department, KPDCL, Health Department, Flood Control, Fire and Emergency Services, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), BSNL and other telecom service providers.
The day-long inspection began at the Nunwan Base Camp, where the Deputy Commissioner reviewed arrangements related to drinking water, electricity, healthcare, accommodation and other essential services. He directed the concerned departments to ensure that all facilities are put in place within stipulated timelines.
He also stressed the need for the early installation of adequate toilet facilities, proper sanitation and hygiene measures, and timely preparation of designated spaces for langars to facilitate pilgrims during the yatra.
At Chandanwari, Dr. Bhat reviewed the arrangements and directed officials to ensure the smooth functioning of healthcare facilities, availability of essential supplies and uninterrupted telecom services.
During the inspection of the yatra track, the Deputy Commissioner assessed its physical condition, reviewed logistical arrangements being executed by BRO (Beacon), and examined requirements for track decongestion, identification of vulnerable stretches and implementation of safety measures.
At Sheshnag, he chaired a review meeting with officers of various departments and issued directions aimed at ensuring a smooth, safe and hassle-free pilgrimage.
The Chief Medical Officer was directed to establish adequate medical facilities and emergency first-aid centres at suitable intervals along the track. He was also asked to deploy sufficient medical personnel and maintain adequate stocks of oxygen cans to assist pilgrims experiencing high-altitude health issues.
The Superintending Engineers of Public Works (R&B), KPDCL and Jal Shakti Department, along with the Executive Engineer, Flood Control, were instructed to ensure uninterrupted infrastructure services, reliable water supply and effective measures to address any emergent situation during the pilgrimage.
The Deputy Commissioner also directed BSNL and other telecom service providers to ensure seamless communication facilities along the route. Officials of FCS&CA and Fire and Emergency Services were asked to maintain adequate supplies and enforce strict safety protocols, particularly at sensitive and high-footfall locations.
During the inspection, Dr. Bhat took first-hand stock of camps and critical facilities from Nunwan to Sheshnag and reviewed the functioning of key utilities, infrastructure assets and installations associated with the annual pilgrimage.
He stressed the importance of coordinated efforts among all departments and instructed officers to ensure that all arrangements are completed well in advance to facilitate a safe and comfortable yatra for devotees.
