In the Kashmir Valley, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha held a meeting with Senior Administrative, Police and Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board officials to review the arrangements for pilgrimage and restoration of National Highway stretch that was affected by incessant rains.
On the occasion, Secretary Public Works (R&B) informed the Lt Governor that the restoration work of the damaged stretch at Panthyal Ramban is being carried out on war-footing basis.
While chairing the meeting, The Lt Governor directed the officials that necessary men and material should be stationed at key locations for timely actions and maintenance of roads. He also directed them to continuously monitor the situation and take necessary steps without any delay. The meeting also discussed the utilization of Mughal road and other alternative roads for the traffic movement.
Manoj Sinha said J&K Administration is coordinating with Union Ministry of Road, Transport & Highways and NHAI on early restoration of damaged stretch. He said pilgrims and public should be informed about weather conditions and status of Yatra on real time basis. He directed the officials to ensure every possible assistance, lodging, food arrangements for pilgrims and optimum utilization of major camps and enhancement of medical facilities for the pilgrims.
The Lieutenant Governor maintained that holding capacity in Kashmir Division should be increased for devotees returning after darshan in view of the closed National Highway. He said the holding area at Kathua should be utilized to optimum as it is the entry point to J&K and directed the officials to increase the capacity and facilities at health centres at both the divisions.
The Lt Governor Manoj Sinha appreciated the extraordinary efforts of J&K Police, Army, CAPFs, civil administration, camp directors, SASB officials and all stakeholder departments and agencies to restore the arrangements and ensure best possible facilities despite severe challenges due to bad weather.
Dr. Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, CEO of Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board briefed the chair that the Mountain Rescue Teams have been deployed on the tracks to facilitate the pilgrims and all the stakeholders, Yatra nodal officers are working round the clock for smooth arrangements.
