Deputy Commissioner Anantnag (Yatra Officer Pahalgam Axis), Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat today conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) track and crucial transit locations extending up to Sheshnag.
The DC was accompanied by a team of senior officers and representatives from concerned agencies, including Commandant BRO, CEO PDA, ADC, SEs Jal Shakti, PWD and KPDCL, ACD, SDM Pahalgam, CMO, Exen FC, DD F&ES, AD FCS&CA, advance party members, DE BSNL and representatives from telecom service providers.
The aim of the day long on site inspection was to take stock of the facilities and to review the overall arrangements for the upcoming SANJY-2026. The inspection commenced from the Nunwan Base Camp where the DC instructed that facilitates for potable water, electricity, health care, tentage and other essential services be put in place in a time bound manner.
He called for early installation of adequate number of toilets, taking necessary measures for hygiene and sanitation and preparation of space for langars so the devotees are facilitated properly. At Chandanwari, the DC issued similar instructions, asking the concerned officers that proper functioning of hospital, essential stock storage and telecom services at the station be ensured.
During the track visit, the DC inspected the physical condition of the track, the logistical arrangements handled by BRO (BEACON) and assessed the track decongestion needs as well as the demarcation of vulnerable areas and safety and utility layouts. At Sheshnag, the DC held a review meeting with all the officers and issued several key directions to facilitate a smooth, safe and seamless Yatra for ease and convenience of the pilgrims.
The Chief Medical Officer was directed to establish robust medical facilities and basic emergency first-aid setups at suitable intervals along the track, which must include the deployment of dedicated medical staff and a sufficient stock of oxygen cans to assist pilgrims facing high-altitude challenges.
Furthermore, the Superintending Engineers from PW(R&B), KPDCL (PDD), and Hydraulic Jal Shakti, along with the Executive Engineer of Flood Control, were directed to ensure flawless infrastructure, stable water supplies, and effective mitigation measures to address the issues of emergent nature.
For communication and emergency responses, the DC directed the representatives of BSNL and telecom service providers to ensure smooth network connectivity, while the FCS&CA and F&ES officials were directed to maintain optimal supply lines and strict safety protocols especially at crucial locations for a safe and smooth yatra.
Taking first hand stock of all the camps and vital locations from Nunwan to Sheshnag, the DC inquired about the functioning of various critical utilities, assets and installations associated with the Yatra.