Pankaj Kumar Sharma reviews arrangements for upcoming Shri Mindhal Mata Yatra 2026

5 Dariya News

Kishtwar 26-May-2026

Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma today convened a review meeting to finalize preparations for the upcoming Shri Mindhal Mata Yatra 2026. The review meeting focused on ensuring the smooth conduct of the Yatra and the provision of essential services for the pilgrims.

The Deputy Commissioner issued key directions for adequate arrangements at the Gauri Shankar Temple, Sarkoot and en route to the holy shrine of Shri Mindhal Mata. He directed the concerned departments to ensure the availability of essential commodities including uninterrupted water and power supply, maintenance of roads, especially at landslide-prone areas en route to Mindhal Mata, proper boarding and lodging facilities for the yatris at the stay venues, security arrangements and proper sanitation facilities for the devotees.

The Deputy Commissioner directed the JPDCL and Jal Shakti Department to provide 24×7 uninterrupted power and water supply, respectively, at Langar venues and stay venues for the yatris. The Health Department was directed to ensure the deployment of medical staff at the stay venues of the yatris, viz. Sarkoot Mandir Kishtwar, Gulabgarh Padder, Maha Kali Mandir Sohal and at Langar venues to provide first-aid facilities.

Further, it was also directed to ensure the availability of ambulance services at these locations for any emergency. The Municipal Council was directed to ensure cleanliness at the Gauri Shankar Mandir premises. The Police Department was instructed to coordinate with the Himachal Pradesh Police to ensure proper security arrangements en route to Mindhal Mata up to the jurisdiction of district Kishtwar, besides the deployment of security personnel at Langar venues.

For effective crowd and vehicle movement, the ARTO and Traffic Police have been tasked with comprehensive traffic management along the Yatra route. Additionally, the PMGSY, GREF and BRO have been directed to carry out timely road maintenance to ensure the safe and uninterrupted travel of pilgrims.

It is noteworthy that the Holy Mace of Shri Mindhal Mata Yatra is scheduled to arrive at the Gauri Shankar Temple Kishtwar on June 10, 2026. The meeting was attended by ADC Pawan Kotwal CEO KDA Kaiser Bhawani, ACR Idrees lone, Tehsildar Nirbhay Sharma besides other officers and concerned staff.