Srinagar, May 10 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Minister Satish Sharma on Sunday visited the revered Kheer Bhawani Temple shrine at Tulmulla in Ganderbal district on Kashmimr today and reviewed arrangements for the upcoming annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, officials said.
Sharma, who holds the portfolios of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Information Technology and Science and Technology, paid obeisance at the shrine and directed the concerned departments to ensure adequate facilities for devotees expected to participate in large numbers during the mela.
During the visit, the minister reviewed preparations related to sanitation, uninterrupted power and water supply, healthcare services, security coordination, cleanliness and transportation facilities.
Emphasising hassle-free movement of pilgrims, Sharma instructed the Transport Department to ensure seamless bus connectivity to the shrine from different locations, particularly during the festival days.
“Religious and cultural events are an important part of Jammu and Kashmir’s rich heritage. The government remains committed to facilitating devotees and preserving the spiritual ethos associated with such revered places,” the minister said.
Later, Sharma visited the revered Mir Baba Hyder Shrine shrine and reviewed infrastructure and civic amenities available for devotees.
He directed the concerned authorities to undertake solarisation of the shrine complex as part of the government’s push for sustainable and eco-friendly infrastructure development at important religious places.
The minister also asked officials to improve facilities including lighting, sanitation and public convenience infrastructure at the shrine.
During the tour, Sharma met several deputations from different areas and communities who projected various public welfare and developmental issues before him. He assured them that their genuine concerns would be examined sympathetically for early redressal.
He also interacted with Kabaddi players and young sportspersons who raised issues related to sports infrastructure and training facilities. Sharma reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and expanding opportunities for youth across Jammu and Kashmir.(NVI)
