Srinagar: Governor N.N. Vohra, Chairman of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), reviewed with Sh. Umang Narula, CEO, SASB, the functioning of the existing food and accommodation facilities in the various Yatra Camps located enroute to the Holy Cave.
CEO informed Chairman that consequent to the decline of the pilgrimage, of the 113 number of Langars which had been granted permission to set up Langars at various Camps located with in the Yatra area 78 Langars had been permitted to close their free kitchen services at various locations in the Yatra area. These Langars have returned to their native places in the first phase, after rendering free kitchen service to the pilgrims. The remaining 35 Langars are still providing free food services in the Yatra area and their number is sufficient to cater to the future requirements. As required, this number could also be curtailed.
CEO informed that 3710 Tents had been allowed to be pitched in the Yatra area by Deputy Commissioners of Anantnag and Ganderbal. In view of decreased number of Yatris, 3,265 Tents have left their allotted sites and 445 are meeting the requirements of Yatris.
Governor directed CEO to assess the number of Langars and Tents which are required to cater to the continuously reducing number of Yatris visiting the Holy Shrine and allow their closure in a phased manner.