Early Times Report
Srinagar, Mar 13: To ensure a smooth conduct of 44-day-long annual Amarnath Yatra 2016 in June through traditional Pahalgam track, authorities have decided to implement the recommendations of fifth report of a High Level Committee (HLC) and put in place all arrangements before its commencement. An official spokesperson here today said that District Development Commissioner (DDC) Anantnag, Muneer ul Islam has already discussed steps for smooth conduct of the annual yatra. He said various matters including registration of ponies, laborers, accommodation, medicare facilities, transport facilities, ration, boarding and lodging facilities, supply of drinking water, sanitation and cleanliness besides establishment of control rooms at all halting stations were discussed. Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) and communication facilities were also reviewed.Mr Islam has directed all the departments concerned to submit their proposals of the new works to be executed for Yatra 2016 well before time and to convey the shortfalls, whatsoever be, into the notice of DDC Anantnag so that appropriate measures are taken before the pilgrimage commences. A joint emergency operation centre at Chandanwari, the last motorable halting station on the traditional route, will be established to meet any eventuality during Yatra," he said.Regarding the construction and upgradation of alternate routes, the Chief Executive Officer ( CEO) Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) was asked to take immediate measures in liaison with the security agencies for comprehensive and safe traffic management of Yatra. In the same vein, he was directed to install exit control gate at Pissu Top.
The DDC has stressed upon the officers and agencies concerned for making all arrangements in advance besides dumping of essential commodities, firewood and other Yatra related machines at identified spots. He directed PDA and Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department to start works on various routes as soon as possible so that the Yatra gets underway smoothly. Besides, he directed Power Development Department (PDD) to ensure inflatable lights at all camps.
Regarding the supply of safe and adequate drinking water to pilgrims, the Public Health Engineering (PHE) assured that underground pipes at Pissu Top, Zojpal and various locations shall be laid by June 15, 2016. |
