Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar today chaired the 13th Board meeting of the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board, Ransoo, reviewing the overall functioning of the Shrine Board and deliberating on measures aimed at strengthening infrastructure and enhancing facilities for pilgrims.
Deputy Commissioner Reasi Kumar Abhishek presented a detailed overview of the Board's activities, pilgrim footfall, financial position and the progress of ongoing development works.
Reviewing the functioning of the Shrine Board, the Divisional Commissioner noted that sustained efforts have been made to upgrade infrastructure and expand pilgrim amenities at the holy shrine. He directed that tenders for shops near the shrine and along the pilgrimage track be floated at the earliest and stressed the installation of CCTV cameras at key locations within the shrine complex.
The Divisional Commissioner reviewed the status of the helipad terminal building and directed the PWD to prepare a DPR for development works around the helipad, including land levelling and allied infrastructure. He instructed the department to augment manpower and expedite execution of works and directed the authorities concerned to coordinate with helicopter service providers for the early operationalisation of helicopter services.
During the meeting, on-the-spot approvals were accorded for several developmental works. The Divisional Commissioner took stock of safety arrangements around the helipad, particularly the installation of fire safety infrastructure and directed the departments concerned to ensure all essential safety measures are put in place.
The action taken on decisions of the previous meeting was also reviewed. Discussion was held on the construction of an alternate track from Ram Mandir to the Holy Cave to decongest the existing route during peak pilgrimage periods. The Divisional Commissioner was apprised of progress on the repair and renovation of the existing track, Gouri Bhawan and Shiv Shakti Bhawan.
To further strengthen safety measures, the Divisional Commissioner directed that a safety audit of bridges along the track be conducted. He asked the executing agencies to closely monitor all development works, ensure use of quality materials and complete projects within stipulated timelines. Tehsildar Pouni was instructed to identify suitable state land for the construction of a Sarai for the convenience of devotees.
The meeting further reviewed several ongoing and proposed projects, including the construction of waiting halls, overhead sheds, security infrastructure, bus stand facilities, water supply systems, cafeteria buildings and other public utility works aimed at improving pilgrim convenience and overall shrine management.
Among those present were CEO SMVDSB Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Deputy Commissioner Reasi Kumar Abhishek, SSP Reasi Mukund Tibrewal, Director Tourism Vikas Gupta, ADC Rakesh Kumar, ACR Nitin Verma and other officers concerned.