Kashmir Inc. joins hands with Admin for comfortable and successful Amarnath Yatra

29 June 2024

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Srinagar: Kashmir business community has joined its hands with the Government Administration for comfortable and successful Amarnath Yatra.

In a meeting held on June 28th at SKICC, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha engaged with Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) and other business groups and civil society members to discuss matters related to the Amarnath Yatra. Attendees included Advisor Rajiv Rai Bhatnagar, Chief Secretary Atal Dullo, Divisional Commissioner, DC Srinagar, Faiz Bakshi, Secretary General, KCCI, religious leaders, trade representatives, and members of civil society.

Key Points Raised by KCCI President Javed Tenga on the occasion inlcude:

1. Welcoming Pilgrims: The people of Kashmir have always warmly welcomed Amarnath Yatra pilgrims, will continue this age-old tradition and will provide all support to the administration in making it a comfortable experience for the pilgrims.

2. Free Movement: Pilgrims should be allowed to explore other areas, promoting Kashmiri hospitality and goodwill.

3. Travel Restrictions: There should be no travel restrictions on tourists and locals during the Yatra.

4. Traffic Management: Current traffic jams are a major inconvenience, necessitating improved traffic management.

5. Power Supply During Muharram: The administration should ensure uninterrupted power supply during Muharram.

6. Traditional Muharram Procession: The traditional Muharram procession should follow its historical routes, as it did last year.

7. Special Hotel Discounts: KCCI offered special discounted hotel rates for Amarnath Yatra pilgrims.

According to the press statement Lt. Governor emphasised on the following issues to uphold Kashmir’s age-old traditional of communal harmony and brotherhood:

1. Cultural Diversity: Lt. Governor Sinha highlighted Kashmir’s multiculturalism and the importance of protecting minority rights across India. He praised the role of Kashmiri Muslims in the dignified conduct of the Yatra over the years.

2. Healthcare Facilities: Two hospitals have been established at Chandanwari and Sonamarg, providing year-round healthcare for pilgrims and locals.

3. Free Movement: The LG requested the Divisional Commissioner to consider allowing pilgrims to move freely in non-Yatra areas, taking security into account.

4. Tourist Movement: He assured that there would be minimal restrictions on the movement of tourists and locals, aside from convoy movements.

5. Traffic Management: Immediate directions were given to improve traffic, particularly on the congested Dalgate-Nishat route. A high-level meeting was convened post-discussion.

6. Power Supply: The administration is committed to avoiding power outages during festivals, particularly Muharram.

7. Muharram Procession: The LG confirmed that the traditional Muharram procession would proceed on its customary routes this year, with plans already underway for its facilitation. A special meeting with stakeholders will be convened soon.

8. Hotel Discounts: In response to the KCCI President’s offer of hotel discounts during the Yatra, the LG humorously inquired if this discount would extend year-round. The President clarified that the discount is specifically for the Yatra period.

The meeting concluded positively, with all parties committed to ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for pilgrims and tourists alike.