Srinagar: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, on Wednesday reviewed Amarnath Yatra 2024 plan viz a viz sanitation facilities, measures aimed at sustainability and zero waste management systems being put in place by the Department of Rural Sanitation in collaboration with the district administration.
Director General, Rural Sanitation, Anoo Malhotra, Assistant Commissioners Development (ACDs) and Assistant Commissioners Panchayats (ACPs) of Anantnag and Ganderbal district made a detailed presentation about the sanitation plan including mobilisation of manpower, machinery and installation of required infrastructure. Various aspects related to sanitation, waste management, and overall preparedness for the yatra were covered.
Dr Shahid emphasized the importance of meticulous planning and coordination to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims throughout Baltal as well as Chandanwari routes. He laid stress on advance coordination with stakeholder departments and organisations including Jal Shakti Deptt, Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited and Border Roads organisation for ensuring availability of water supply, power supply and movement of machinery, respectively.
Dr Shahid reiterated the department’s commitment towards expediting the approval process for necessary measures, ensuring timely implementation of plans, and providing adequate support to address any challenges that may arise during the yatra. He elaborated measures being initiated by the department to ensure a smooth and successful SANJY 2024, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing infrastructure challenges. He encouraged the team to explore new technologies and methodologies to improve the pilgrimage experience for devotees.
Earlier, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat (ACP) Ganderbal gave a detailed presentation about the proposed plan for this year’s yatra,
For the yatra through Baltal route, the Rural Development Department (RDD) is planning to deploy required sanitation workers operating in 12-hour shifts per day to oversee sanitation activities. In addition, provisions are being made for hiring of tractors to manage garbage removal along the Baltal Axis, alongside plans for installing toilet and bath units at various camp locations and en route from Nilgrat to the Holy Cave.
Moreover, a substantial allocation of dustbins along the Baltal Axis is being planned to maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards.
The meeting outlined strategies for repair and renovation of Community Sanitation Complexes (CSCs) along the Yatra route. Additionally, provisions are also being planned for electrifying CSCs to ensure pilgrims’ access to essential facilities. Furthermore, plans were detailed for hiring skilled workers to address any sanitation challenges arising from choked drains and sewer lines during the Yatra.
Assistant Commissioner Panchayat (ACP) Anantnag outlined comprehensive plans to ensure cleanliness and efficiency along this Chandanwari route.
In Anantnag district, RDD is planning to deploy 20 per cent of manpower for path maintenance and beautification activities starting 15 days before commencement of the Yatra. To support the staff involved in Yatra operations, tents will be installed at camp sites, and control rooms will be established at District HQ and Pahalgam. Additionally, waste management capabilities will be enhanced with the installation of bailing machines and shredders at camp sites.
For effective communication with pilgrims, LED boards will be strategically placed along the Pahalgam Axis to provide information and updates. Logistical arrangements will be made, including the hiring of ponies to transport dustbins and signage from Chandanwari to Panjtarni/Holy Cave, as well as for VIPs visiting the Holy Cave.
Concerns were raised about the condition of existing facilities, such as toilets, at pilgrimage sites, with emphasis placed on the importance of conducting thorough inspections to address any maintenance issues.
Furthermore, officials emphasized the significance of solid waste management and implementation of effective sanitation practices throughout the pilgrimage route. Plans were discussed to tender projects for waste management units and to ensure proper disposal of waste to prevent environmental degradation.
Additionally, discussions centered around the need for clear timelines and detailed plans for each camp along the yatra route.
Officials stressed the importance of accurately documenting fund commitments and obligations to avoid any confusion or unrealistic decisions in the future. They also discussed the need for comprehensive repair and renovation of existing infrastructure, including CSCs and toilet facilities, to withstand extreme weather conditions.
The meeting addressed the electrification of CSCs to ensure their functionality, with a focus on long-term sustainability.
