KATHUA, March 01: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, today visited Lakhanpur to take a detailed review of the status of infrastructure and assets available for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) 2026, in the aftermath of last year’s floods.
During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner conducted a comprehensive inspection of assets belonging to the Tourism Department, Animal Husbandry Department, DDC Office, State Taxes Department and Excise Department that were affected by the floods. He assessed the extent of damage and reviewed the scope for restoration, strengthening and optimal utilisation of available infrastructure during the Yatra period.
The DC also examined the government buildings and logistics facilities to explore their effective use for accommodation, service delivery and facilitation of pilgrims during SANJY 2026.
Later, the Deputy Commissioner visited the Lakhanpur Yard area and took stock of the arrangements to be put in place for establishment of the Lakhanpur Yatra Felicitation Centre.
He directed the concerned departments to ensure timely repair, restoration and augmentation of essential infrastructure including power, water supply, sanitation and approach roads to ensure seamless arrangements well ahead of the Yatra.
He also directed XEN PWD to ensure blacktopping of the entire entry point including the Yard area. Besides, the DC directed the Animal Husbandry department to shift its makeshift office to a suitable location at the earliest.
Emphasising inter-departmental coordination, the DC instructed officers to prepare a detailed action plan with clear timelines for completion of works and close monitoring of progress on the ground.
The Deputy Commissioner further directed the Executive Officer, Municipal Committee Lakhanpur to undertake comprehensive facelift and beautification of the Lakhanpur entry point, terming it as the gateway of Jammu and Kashmir.
He stressed the need to maintain cleanliness, proper signage, landscaping and illumination to ensure that the entry corridor presents a welcoming and aesthetically appealing view to the pilgrims and visitors entering the Union Territory.
The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner State Taxes Joginder Jasrotia, CPO Ranjeet Thakur, XEN PWD, XEN PDD, EO Lakhanpur, CAHO, DIO and other concerned officers.
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