Jammu, Jul 15 (NVI): The ongoing Amarnath Yatra has crossed the three-lakh mark in just 12 days, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said today as he reviewed facilities and services for pilgrims at the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas here.
During his visit, Sinha discussed the arrangements with officials of the police, Army, security forces, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board and civil administration, according to an official statement.
He commended the officials for their efforts in managing the annual pilgrimage and asked them to treat every pilgrim as a “divine guest”.
“With the holy pilgrimage already crossing the three-lakh mark in just 12 days, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for pilgrims is our top priority,” Sinha said.
The lieutenant governor directed officials to ensure flawless registration, comfortable lodging and smooth transportation for devotees undertaking the pilgrimage to the cave shrine in south Kashmir.
He also asked the administration to organise sightseeing tours to prominent spiritual and tourist destinations in the Jammu region and promote local handicrafts and handloom products among pilgrims.
“It is our goal that whenever Baba Amarnath pilgrims return home, they should carry a piece of Jammu in the form of beautiful local handmade products and unforgettable memories,” he said.
Sinha reviewed food safety measures at community kitchens, facilities at reception and lodging centres, on-the-spot registration, transportation and security arrangements. He directed officials to optimise manpower deployment to handle the increasing influx of pilgrims.
He also instructed the administration to closely monitor weather forecasts issued by the Meteorological Department and remain prepared for any adverse weather conditions.
During the meeting, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar informed the lieutenant governor about legal action initiated against persons allegedly involved in fraudulent practices related to the yatra. Sinha directed that strict administrative and legal action be taken against any official found involved in misconduct.
The lieutenant governor later interacted with pilgrims and wished them a safe and peaceful pilgrimage.(NVI)
