Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Dr Rakesh Minhas today conducted an on-the-spot inspection of the holy shrine of Baba Ballo Ji Maharaj at Mathwar to review the arrangements for the forthcoming Basant Panchami Mela. He was accompanied by Additional District Development Commissioner, Sher Singh; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Ansuya Jamwal; besides other senior district officers during the visit.
During the inspection, the Deputy Commissioner held a detailed meeting with officers of the concerned departments and representatives of the shrine management committee to assess preparedness for the annual religious event, which attracts a large number of devotees from different parts of the district and adjoining areas.
While reviewing the arrangements, the Deputy Commissioner laid particular emphasis on ensuring smooth road connectivity to the shrine. He directed the Public Works Department to expedite all necessary repair and patchwork works and ensure that the approach roads are maintained in proper condition so that pilgrims can reach the shrine without any inconvenience.
The Deputy Commissioner also reviewed traffic management arrangements and directed to prepare a comprehensive traffic plan for the Mela days. He stressed the need for identifying designated parking areas and deploying adequate personnel at key locations to ensure smooth traffic flow.
Reviewing the security scenario, the Deputy Commissioner asked the police authorities to put in place adequate security arrangements with proper deployment of manpower around the shrine and adjoining areas to maintain peace and law and order during the religious congregation.
Power Development and Jal Shakti departments were directed to ensure uninterrupted electricity and water supply at the shrine and surrounding areas throughout the festival period. Regarding sanitation, he instructed the Rural Development Department and concerned agencies to maintain cleanliness in and around the Mela premises with proper waste disposal.
He also directed the Health Department to deploy a medical team on site along with an ambulance and essential medicines to handle any medical emergency during the Mela. The Deputy Commissioner assured the shrine management of full administrative support and directed all departments to work in close coordination to ensure smooth and safe celebrations of the Basant Panchami Mela.