Pahalgam: Secretary, Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, on Saturday reviewed sanitation arrangements along the Pahalgam axis in preparation for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY-2026).
During the inspection, the Secretary visited sanitation facilities from Nunwan Base Camp to Pissutop and Zojibal, assessing the progress and quality of toilets and bath units being installed at Nunwan, Chandanwari, Pissutop and Zojibal. He directed executing agencies to expedite the works and ensure timely completion of all sanitation assets.
Emphasising the importance of hygiene and cleanliness, Asad also instructed officials to maintain proper sanitation standards in and around the tented accommodations housing sanitation workers.
Reviewing preparations, the Secretary said the department has planned extensive sanitation infrastructure along the Pahalgam route for the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. He informed that a total of 3,120 sanitation assets, including 2,755 toilets and 365 bath units, are being installed between Nunwan and Panjtarni.
According to officials, major sanitation facilities have already been established at Panjtarni, Sheshnag, Chandanwari and Nunwan Base Camp, while additional facilities are being created at Pissutop, Zojibal, Wawbal, MG Top, Poshpathri and Bijbehara.
Asad directed the deployment of dedicated sanitation teams at facilities maintained by the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board to ensure regular cleaning and upkeep throughout the Yatra period.
He further instructed that all toilets and bath units be equipped with proper latches, door panels, bath fittings, electrical connections and drainage systems to ensure safe and hygienic use by pilgrims.
Reviewing solid waste management arrangements, the Secretary directed concerned agencies to accelerate wall-matting works and ensure timely installation of machinery at designated Solid Waste Management sites.
Later, he chaired a review meeting with officers of line departments and executing agencies, stressing timely completion of all sanitation works and reiterating the objective of conducting a “Zero Landfill Yatra”.
The Secretary was accompanied by Anoo Malhotra, Director General Rural Sanitation; Assistant Commissioner Development Anantnag Shafiq Ahmad Wani, Block Development Officers and other field officials.