Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Dr Raghav Langer today reviewed the arrangements for smooth conduct of annual Navratra festival, here at a meeting of concerned officers.The meeting was informed that the nine day festival would commence on October 7, 2021 and culminate on October 15, 2021 .The inaugural function of the festival would be held at Asia Chowk Katra followed by Shobha Yatra and a grand event showcasing the culture and heritage of Jammu and Kashmir and India as a whole.The Assistant Director Tourism presented a detailed report on the programmes scheduled and the activities to be held during the festival and preparations being put in place for the same. Threadbare discussions were held on each activity/ event while seeking suggestions from the stakeholders. The Div Com stressed on adhering to the covid protocols while holding the festival events. He also suggested excluding activities involving large gatherings.Representatives of Hoteliers Association assured to extend full cooperation towards facilitating tourists and guests during the festival.
They also assured to maintain cleanliness besides following covid related guidelines while serving the guests.The Divisional Commissioner also had a detailed review of beautification of the town, provision for sanitation, essential services, traffic management and emergency services.While reviewing arrangements for congregational programmes like Prabhat Pheris, Mata ki Kahani recitation, Devotional Song Competition, Dangal and other cultural items the Div Com instructed that the committee headed by DC Reasi shall inspect the venues for taking final decision.The Div Com directed the concerned officers to put in place all necessary arrangements and work in a well coordinated manner to make preparations well in advance. He stressed on proper regulation of traffic, fool proof security, maintenance of roads, streets, beautification of shops/ market, sanitation of Katra town etc.The Chief Executive Officer SMVD Shrine Board, DC Reasi, Director Tourism, SSP Reasi, Assistant Director Tourism Katra, Director Urban Local Bodies, Chief Engineer, PWD, Joint Director Information besides elected members of Katra Municipal Committee, Presidents of Market associations and other eminent citizens among others were also present at the meeting.