*Calls for Timely Completion of Sanitation Infrastructure, Robust Waste Management Measures*
Pahalgam, June 06: Director General, Rural Sanitation, Jammu & Kashmir, Ms. Anoo Malhotra, today conducted a comprehensive review of sanitation preparedness on the Pahalgam axis in view of the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) 2026.
Chairing a review meeting with concerned officers at Pahalgam, the Director General assessed the status of sanitation facilities being established to cater to the expected influx of pilgrims during the annual pilgrimage.
The review focused on ensuring timely installation of sanitation infrastructure and maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the Yatra period.
Accompanied by the Assistant Commissioner Panchayat (ACP) Anantnag, Executive Engineer PDD Anantnag, Executive Engineer REW Anantnag, Block Development Officer Pahalgam and officials from the Pahalgam Municipal Committee, Jal Shakti Department and other line departments, Ms. Malhotra later undertook an extensive field inspection of ongoing sanitation works from Nunwan Base Camp up to Chandanwari.
During the inspection, she reviewed the progress of toilet installations and allied sanitation infrastructure and directed officers to expedite the execution of all works to ensure completion within the stipulated timelines. Emphasizing the importance of regular field monitoring, strict quality control and inter-departmental coordination, she instructed implementing agencies to promptly address bottlenecks and ensure seamless execution on the ground.
The Director General also reviewed arrangements for solid and liquid waste management, including waste collection points, drainage interventions, waste segregation facilities and environmentally sound waste disposal systems.
Stressing the importance of maintaining a clean and litter-free pilgrimage route, she directed officials to establish efficient waste collection and transportation mechanisms across all key locations.
Special emphasis was laid on the cleanliness and upkeep of public sanitation facilities, availability of adequate water supply, maintenance of bathing areas and ensuring odour-free conditions for pilgrims.
Officers were directed to deploy sufficient sanitation personnel at strategic locations and ensure round-the-clock monitoring of critical facilities.
To strengthen oversight and improve service delivery, Ms. Malhotra called for the adoption of technology-driven monitoring mechanisms, including QR code-based systems and smart monitoring tools, aimed at enhancing accountability and real-time supervision during the Yatra.
She further stressed the need for installing clear and prominent signages indicating the locations of sanitation facilities, separate toilets for men and women, bathing units and other essential amenities to facilitate easy access for pilgrims along the route.
Highlighting the importance of community participation and behavioural change, Ms. Malhotra called for intensified IEC activities to promote responsible waste disposal practices and proper utilization of sanitation facilities among pilgrims, service providers and other stakeholders.
Reaffirming the department’s commitment to ensuring a clean, safe and comfortable pilgrimage experience, the Director General directed all stakeholders to maintain the highest standards of sanitation and hygiene across the Pahalgam axis.
“A clean and well-managed Yatra reflects our collective commitment towards serving the pilgrims. Every sanitation facility and waste management system must function efficiently to ensure a safe, hygienic and dignified journey for all devotees,” Ms. Malhotra added.
