GANDERBAL, AUGUST 17: Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, today chaired a meeting to review the preparations and arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Annual Harmukh Gangbal Yatra-2026.

The meeting held a detailed review of the arrangements being made by various departments, with particular focus on road connectivity, security, accommodation, drinking water, sanitation, healthcare, power supply, traffic management, food supplies, communication and emergency response mechanisms.

The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned departments to complete all necessary arrangements well in advance and ensure effective inter-departmental coordination. He stressed upon the need for proper deployment of manpower and magistrates at identified locations to facilitate the smooth movement and management of the yatra.

The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned departments to ensure adequate arrangements for drinking water, sanitation, toilets and cleanliness along the route and at the camps. He stressed upon maintaining a clean and environmentally responsible yatra, with special emphasis on proper waste disposal and keeping the area free from plastic waste.

The Health Department was directed to deploy doctors, ambulances and medical teams and ensure adequate availability of medicines, oxygen and other essential medical facilities for timely response.

The Power Development Department was asked to ensure adequate power arrangements, while the concerned agencies were directed to keep communication and telecommunication facilities functional and maintain necessary backup arrangements.

The Deputy Commissioner also directed the Forest and Wildlife authorities to ensure that all arrangements are carried out while safeguarding the ecology and natural environment of the area.

The Rural Development Department was asked to undertake cleanliness drives before and after the yatra and ensure proper disposal of waste generated during the event.

The Police, SDRF and other emergency response agencies were directed to keep rescue and emergency response teams and equipment in readiness and maintain close coordination for prompt response to any unforeseen situation.

The Deputy Commissioner directed all concerned officers to undertake field inspections and ensure that the arrangements are completed within the stipulated timelines. He emphasized that every department must work in close coordination to ensure a safe, secure, clean and hassle-free pilgrimage for the devotees.

The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kangan, Divisional Forest Officer, Sindh Forest Division, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat, Executive Engineers of Jal Shakti, PWD/R&B, KPDCL and PMGSY, Chief Medical Officer, Assistant Director Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, District Floriculture Officer, Assistant Regional Transport Officer, Tehsildar Kangan, DySP Traffic, BDO Kangan, Tourist Officer Naranag and other concerned officers.

The Deputy Commissioner reiterated that all stakeholders shall maintain round the clock coordination and readiness to ensure the smooth, safe and successful conduct of the Annual Harmukh Gangbal Yatra 2026.