GANDERBAL, JUNE 12: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore today chaired a meeting here to review the preparations for the annual Mela Kheer Bhawani-2026 at Tulmulla and ensure smooth arrangements for the devotees expected to participate in the religious festival.

At the outset, the DC took a detailed department-wise review of the arrangements being put in place and directed all concerned departments to ensure timely completion of assigned works. He instructed that all essential facilities should be in place before June 18 to facilitate a smooth and comfortable experience for visiting devotees.

R&B Department was directed to complete all pending repair and maintenance works and oversee the installation of accommodation facilities, including tents for pilgrims. Special emphasis was laid on covering open drains, improving pedestrian pathways and ensuring safe access to the shrine.

Jal Shakti and KPDCL were instructed to ensure uninterrupted drinking water and power supply during the mela period. The concerned agencies were also directed to maintain adequate backup arrangements and ensure proper functioning of water storage facilities and lighting systems.

Municipal Council Ganderbal and Rural Development Department were asked to intensify sanitation measures in and around the shrine area, accommodation sites and approach roads. The DC stressed the importance of maintaining cleanliness and ensuring availability of functional toilet facilities for devotees.

Health Department informed the meeting that medical facilities, including emergency healthcare services, ambulances and dedicated medical teams, will be available at the shrine premises throughout the mela. Necessary arrangements for medicines, first-aid and emergency response have also been put in place.

The meeting also reviewed arrangements related to security, traffic regulation, parking, fire safety, public address systems, street lighting and crowd management. Special facilities, including wheelchairs, walking sticks and assistance for elderly and differently-abled devotees, will be made available to ensure ease and comfort during the pilgrimage.

The DC directed all departments to work in close coordination and adopt a service-oriented approach while discharging their duties.

He said that Mela Kheer Bhawani is a revered religious occasion and an important symbol of Kashmir’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. He urged officers to ensure that every devotee visiting the shrine feels welcome, safe and well cared for.

Among others, the meeting was attended by Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kangan, senior officers from civil administration, line departments and police, representatives of Dharmarth Trust and other stakeholders associated with the management of the Mela.