Annual Budha Amarnath Yatra to commence from Jammu on Aug 16; officials review arrangements

JAMMU: With the 12-day-long annual Buddha Amarnath Yatra set to begin August 17, Jammu Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar and Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti on Wednesday visited Poonch district to review arrangements for the pilgrimage. The yatra, based in Poonch district, will see the first batch of pilgrims depart from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu on August 16. It will conclude August 28 on the occasion of Rakshabandhan, while the traditional Chhari Yatra will be taken out August 26. The ancient Baba Budha Amarnath shrine is located in the Loran Valley along the Pulsata river, about 4,600 feet above sea level. It is located approximately 290 km from Jammu. Chairing a review meeting with senior civil and police officers, the divisional commissioner directed concerned departments to ensure that all necessary facilities are in place well in advance for a safe, secure and comfortable pilgrimage for the devotees, officials said. The meeting reviewed preparedness in areas such as security, traffic management, sanitation, healthcare, drinking water, power supply, accommodation and other logistical arrangements for smooth conduct of the annual pilgrimage, they said. The divisional commissioner and the IGP also interacted with representatives of civil society and religious organisations to discuss issues and seek suggestions for peaceful conduct of the yatra. During the meeting, participants observed a two-minute silence in memory of those who lost their lives in the recent flash floods in the Jammu region. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Rajouri Abhishek Sharma also chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess preparedness and finalise arrangements for the successful conduct of the forthcoming Shri Baba Budha Amarnath Ji Yatra. The Deputy Commissioner reviewed responsibilities assigned to various departments and directed all officers to ensure timely completion of arrangements required for a comfortable pilgrimage. The Deputy Commissioner stressed the need for robust security arrangements, effective traffic management, adequate medical facilities, uninterrupted drinking water and power supply and other essential public services for pilgrims. He directed departments concerned to maintain proper sanitation and cleanliness along the yatra route and instructed officers to install clear and informative signages to facilitate the pilgrims. To enhance safety, he also called for installation of high-mast lights at key locations and directed departments concerned to conduct a comprehensive fire safety audit of all lodgement centres, langar sites and other important locations to prevent any untoward incidents.