Divisional Commissioner Jammu and Chairman of Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board, Ramesh Kumar visited the holy town of Ransoo today to review the ongoing Shrawan Mahotsav arrangements and inspect the progress of the development works around the shrine.
The primary objective of the visit was to ensure all the necessary arrangements for devotees are put in place by the concerned departments for smooth conduct of the annual Mahotsav organized at the revered Shrine and in view of increased footfall during the holy month of Sharawan.
Chairing the review meeting with concerned HoDs and officials of line departments, the Divisional Commissioner emphasized on ensuring smooth road connectivity, regular cleanliness, sanitation, provision of uninterrupted power and water supply and other essential services like medical assistance, fire and emergency readiness and issued related directions.
The Divisional Commissioner directed the concerned departments for timely removal of debris at roads on a daily basis, given the onset of the monsoon season which may cause obstructions. He directed concerned departments to remain vigilant and proactive in dealing with such challenges to avoid any inconvenience to pilgrims.
Focusing on the cleanliness and hygiene, the Div Com directed municipal and shrine board authorities to ensure proper sanitation in the shrine area and town and to adopt biodegradable methods for garbage disposal in order to promote environmental sustainability during the festivities.
In terms of health services for devotees, the Health Department was instructed to keep round-the-clock availability of doctors and ambulances at both the shrine and in town. The PHE Department was asked to maintain adequate and clean drinking water supply, with daily quality checks to ensure the safety of the pilgrims.
To safeguard against fire hazards, the Fire and Emergency Services Department was directed to deploy fire tenders, conduct fire audits of all langars, and ensure adequate availability of fire extinguishers. The Transport Department was directed to monitor for overloading and overcharging by transporters and take strict measures if necessary.
The Power development department was instructed to ensure uninterrupted power supply and maintain alternate power backup systems.
The Div Com also instructed the Police Department to deploy adequate personnel and ensure 24x7 functioning of CCTV surveillance systems. He stressed the importance of strict ID verification and stated that no one should be allowed entry without a proper registration card.
In addition to reviewing arrangements for the Sharawan Mahotsav, the Divisional Commissioner also assessed the progress of the development projects initiated by the Tourism Department and Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board to upgrade infrastructure around the pilgrimage. He instructed officials to fast-track the execution of these projects and timely submission of proposals for further action.
Earlier, the Divisional Commissioner highlighted the importance of Shrawan Mahotsav in promoting religious tourism and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the district. He directed the administration to work closely for ensuring a safe, clean and spiritually enriching experience for all devotees visiting Shivkhori shrine during the auspicious period.
It was informed that a number of religious and cultural events are scheduled during the Mahotsav including Kavad Yatras on every Monday of the month, the Shiv Puran Katha to be conducted from July 27 to August 4.
The celebrations will culminate in a grand Bhajan Sandhya on August 4, expected to draw large gatherings and create a spiritually uplifting environment.
Deputy Commissioner Reasi Nidhi Malik, Director Tourism Vikas Gupta, SSP Reasi Paramvir Singh, ADC Rakesh Kumar and other concerned officials from key departments were present.