BALTAL: Secretary, Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad on Friday reviewed sanitation and solid waste management arrangements at the Baltal Base Camp for the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026, taking first-hand feedback from pilgrims on cleanliness and civic facilities.
During the visit, Asad inspected the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Plant, sanitation assets and the Tent City as the first batch of pilgrims proceeded towards the Holy Cave Shrine from the Baltal and Nunwan base camps.
Interacting with yatris at different locations, the Secretary welcomed the pilgrims and sought their feedback on sanitation and other facilities. He also met langar operators and invited suggestions for improving civic amenities, reiterating the administration’s commitment to ensuring a clean, safe and hassle-free pilgrimage.
Reviewing the functioning of the SWM Plant, he assessed the systems for waste collection, segregation, processing and scientific disposal. He also inspected sanitation infrastructure deployed along the Yatra route to ensure its operational readiness and uninterrupted service throughout the pilgrimage.
While interacting with sanitation workers and field functionaries, Asad appreciated their efforts and directed officials to maintain the highest standards of hygiene, stressing that efficient sanitation and waste management are essential for the safety and convenience of pilgrims.
The Secretary also visited the Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Exhibition Centre, where he reviewed environmentally sustainable initiatives introduced for this year’s Yatra, including the Bartan Bank to promote reusable utensils, the Akhand Jyot powered by biogas generated from mule dung, and the SANJY Tableau showcasing the department’s sustainable pilgrimage management model.
At the Tent City, he inspected sanitation arrangements and reviewed the availability and functioning of sanitation machinery, equipment and consumables, directing officials to ensure their optimum deployment throughout the pilgrimage.
Emphasising environmental responsibility, Asad said efficient solid waste management and green initiatives are key to making the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra environmentally sustainable, and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and environmental protection.
