Srinagar, April 4: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg on Friday reviewed preparations for the departure of Hajj pilgrims and directed all concerned departments to ensure smooth arrangements.
Chairing a high-level meeting in Srinagar, the Divisional Commissioner stressed close coordination among departments and agencies for the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioners from across Jammu and Kashmir and Kargil, besides representatives of the Airport Authority, Customs, Emigration, Tourism, Police, CISF, Health, Transport, Public Works, PHE, KPDCL and other departments.
Officials informed the meeting that Hajj flights are scheduled to operate from April 18 to April 28 and that 4,706 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir are expected to undertake the pilgrimage this year.
Garg directed Deputy Commissioners to personally monitor arrangements and ensure that pilgrims do not face any inconvenience.
He stressed the need to provide uninterrupted electricity and water supply, sanitation and healthcare facilities at the Hajj House.
The Divisional Commissioner also directed J&K Bank to ensure adequate availability of foreign exchange in lower denominations for pilgrims.
He further asked the authorities to make proper boarding and lodging arrangements for pilgrims arriving from Jammu and Ladakh.
Customs and Emigration officials were instructed to set up special facilitation counters at the airport to ensure quick clearance of pilgrims.
For better coordination and information sharing, Garg directed the Hajj Officer to create a dedicated WhatsApp group comprising all concerned officials and Hajj aspirants.
