Amarnath Yatra arrangements finalised in Samba

Samba Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma and Senior Superintendent of Police Virender Singh Manhas on Tuesday convened a meeting to finalise the arrangements to ensure a seamless and secure Amarnath pilgrimage for the visiting devotees.

The Deputy Commissioner said the district administration has prioritised pilgrim comfort through extensive infrastructure upgrades and putting in advanced communication systems. “Public address systems and speakers have been installed across lodgement centres to enable real-time announcements and emergency advisories, while print, electronic and social media platforms are being utilised to ensure pilgrims receive timely updates on cut-off timings and safety protocols,” he added.

SSP Virender Singh Manhas outlined a robust multi-tier security deployment strategy featuring enhanced surveillance mechanism with special focus on sensitive zones and strategic security positioning around langar locations. “This comprehensive monitoring system will ensure pilgrim safety throughout their sacred journey,” he added.

The meeting was informed that the medical and emergency preparedness has been given paramount importance with deployment of qualified health personnel and positioning of ambulances equipped with essential medical equipment at all strategic locations. The Fire and Emergency Services Department has been directed to conduct mandatory mock drills with strategic placement of fire extinguishers and CCTV surveillance at all langar and lodging facilities, ensuring rapid response capabilities in any emergency situation.

“To guarantee uninterrupted essential services, the administration has deployed adequate generators and water tankers ensuring 24x7 electricity and water supply and implemented comprehensive waste management and sanitation and hygiene protocols,” an official said.

The coordination meeting was attended by Additional District Development Commissioner Champa Devi Thakur, Additional Deputy Commissioner Jagdish Singh, military personnel and senior officials from departments including PWD, Jal Shakti, Power Development, Health and Fire & Emergency Services.