Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore today chaired a comprehensive review meeting here to assess the preparedness and progress of developmental and logistical arrangements being undertaken for the smooth conduct of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026 along the Baltal axis.
During the review, the DC took a department-wise assessment of works included in the Action Plan-2026 and directed all executing agencies to ensure completion of pending works by June 20th, well ahead of the commencement of the annual pilgrimage.
Superintending Engineer Public Works (Roads and Buildings) Department informed the meeting that works relating to development of parking facilities, improvement of footpaths and pony tracks and installation of barricades for crowd management at Baltal are progressing satisfactorily.
Superintending Engineer KPDCL apprised the meeting that the augmentation of the electricity distribution network, installation of street lighting and other works are being carried out on priority to ensure uninterrupted power supply at Baltal, Domail, Transit Camp and other Yatra locations.
Similarly Executive Engineer Jal Shakti Department informed the meeting that significant progress on water supply infrastructure, including augmentation of pipe networks and strengthening of facilities to cater to pilgrims, service providers and security personnel along the Yatra route has been achieved, and rest of the works shall be completed within set timelines.
Executive Engineer Irrigation and Flood Control department was directed to complete all assigned works within the stipulated time. The Health Department informed that adequate medical arrangements have been put in place, including deployment of ambulances, emergency response teams, manpower and medical equipment at designated health facilities and base camps.
The Labour Department and Animal Husbandry Department informed the meeting that registration of labourers and service providers associated with the Yatra is being carried out on a priority basis. DC directed the Assistant Commissioner Labour to expedite the registration process.
In order to ensure optimal utilisation of parking spaces, and plying of smooth traffic along the yatra route, concerned officers were directed to compile and submit effective parking and transport plan. The meeting also reviewed arrangements related to telecommunications, sanitation, ration supply, fire safety measures and conveyance for yatries besides SRTC bus service.
Departments concerned were directed to maintain close coordination and address all bottlenecks on priority. The DC emphasized that all departments must work in mission mode to ensure seamless facilities for pilgrims. He instructed officers to expedite pending verifications, finalize manpower deployment plans and submit regular progress reports for effective monitoring.
Reiterating the administration's commitment to a safe, smooth and hassle-free Yatra, the DC directed all departments to adhere strictly to timelines and ensure that every required facility is fully operational before yatra begins.
The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Superintending Engineer R&B and KPDCL, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kangan, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat and officers of various line departments, security agencies and stakeholders associated with Yatra management.