Ganderbal: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg on Monday conducted an extensive inspection of arrangements being put in place for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026 along the Baltal axis and directed all departments to complete the remaining works by June 20 to ensure full operational readiness ahead of the pilgrimage.
During the visit, the Divisional Commissioner reviewed the progress of developmental and preparatory works aimed at ensuring a safe, smooth and comfortable Yatra for pilgrims.
Accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore, Senior Superintendent of Police Ganderbal Sudhanshu Dhama and officers from various departments, Garg inspected Yatri Niwas, RFID registration counters, dormitory facilities, Baltal Base Camp infrastructure and the pony stand. He took stock of the facilities being created for pilgrims and interacted with officers and field functionaries regarding the status of ongoing works.
The Divisional Commissioner directed the concerned departments to ensure timely installation of signages, information boards and public awareness banners at all key locations to facilitate better guidance and accessibility for pilgrims. He also stressed proper sanitation management, queue regulation, traffic management and availability of essential services along the Yatra route.
Later, Garg chaired a high-level review meeting at Baltal to assess the preparedness of stakeholder departments for the annual pilgrimage.
At the outset, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal presented a detailed overview of arrangements being made for SANJY-2026, covering infrastructure development, accommodation facilities, registration mechanisms, disaster management preparedness and other departmental works.
Reviewing the preparedness department-wise, the Divisional Commissioner directed all concerned agencies to complete the remaining works by June 20 and ensure that all facilities are fully functional before the commencement of the Yatra. He underscored the importance of close inter-departmental coordination and directed officers to remain available round the clock for prompt response and effective coordination.
During the meeting, the Health Department informed that all medical aid centres along the Yatra track would be made fully functional by June 28, while oxygen booths would be established by June 25. Officials also informed that advance medical teams have already been deployed and emergency healthcare arrangements are being strengthened.
The Divisional Commissioner reviewed arrangements relating to sanitation, drinking water supply, electricity, telecommunication services, transportation, disaster management and fire safety. He directed the Rural Development Department to ensure proper maintenance of sanitation facilities, while Jal Shakti and KPDCL were instructed to provide uninterrupted water and power supply with adequate backup arrangements.
The meeting was also informed that registration of service providers is underway and identity cards would be issued within the stipulated timeline. Telecom agencies reported that communication infrastructure has already been established and is operational.
The review meeting was attended by officers from the Sonamarg Development Authority, Rural Development Department, Health Department, Jal Shakti, KPDCL, Forest Department, Tourism Department, Fire and Emergency Services, Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, Transport Department, Disaster Management Authority, Police, BRO, BSNL, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board and other concerned agencies.
