To ensure the smooth conduct of the annual Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) 2024, officials in Jammu and Kashmir are making extensive arrangements. The Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Ganderbal, Shyambir, chaired a meeting at the Transit Camp in Manigam to review the preparations.
During the meeting, the Labour Commissioner of J&K, Charandeep Singh, visited a special mega camp in Sonmarg to oversee the registration process for service providers such as Ponywalas, Palkiwalas, and Dandiwalas. Accompanied by the Assistant Labour Commissioner of Ganderbal and other officials, Singh announced that all service providers would be registered by June 15, with comprehensive measures in place to facilitate the process.
“We have pony, palanquin, and dandi providers here. Their details have been gathered from the shrine board portal, and we are now finalizing their registrations. To date, approximately 14,000 service providers have registered for SANJY-2024. The registration process will conclude by June 15,” Singh said.
He added that after mandatory health checks, pony providers must register their ponies with the Animal Husbandry Department. RFID cards will be issued to registered service providers for the Yatra.
In a significant change from previous years, service providers will now receive their RFID cards in their respective districts, eliminating the need to travel to Naranag or Ganderbal camps. Special camps will also be organized to issue RFID cards, ensuring service providers are ready well before the Yatra begins.
Singh praised the dedication of the service providers, emphasizing their crucial role in assisting pilgrims. He urged Labour Department officials to support the service providers fully to ensure a smooth and successful pilgrimage.
The DC’s meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts of various departments to enhance the pilgrimage experience. Key discussions included the status of permanent and temporary washrooms, electricity supply, tent areas, water supply, signage, and other essential facilities.
Emphasizing the importance of high-quality tents with proper bedding and amenities, the DC also stressed maintaining cleanliness in toilets, clear signage, efficient space utilization, and effective waste management. He directed the Executive Officer of the Municipal Council Ganderbal to design and install signage and banners within the transit camp promptly.
Departments including the Municipal Council Ganderbal, Tourism, and Rural Development were instructed to ensure the timely installation of washrooms and complete any necessary repairs swiftly.
The meeting was attended by Additional District Development Commissioner Mushtaq Ahmad Simnani, ASP Aijaz Ahmad, Executive Officer of Municipal Council Ganderbal, Tehsildar Lar, Chief Education Officer, Chief Medical Officer, Executive Engineers from Jal Shakti and R&B, District Information Officer, and other concerned officials.