Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, June 25: Cabinet Minister Satish Sharma today urged people from across the country to participate in large numbers in the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, calling it a powerful reply to those who want to disturb peace in Jammu and Kashmir.
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Sharma made these remakes during his visit to Sonamarg, where he reviewed the arrangements being made for the annual pilgrimage that begins on July 3. “There is no bigger slap in the face of enemies than to see this yatra take place peacefully. If the people of India want to face their enemies well, they must come forward in large numbers. We want to send a message of peace, harmony, and brotherhood to the world,” he said.
The Minister said that in view of the challenging developments witnessed over the last six to seven weeks, the Government is making special efforts to ensure the smooth conduct of the yatra. “By the grace of Bholenath, we wish this yatra goes well. In these special times, we are trying to make special arrangements because we witnessed things we did not expect in the past few days,” he said.
Sharma emphasized that the Government is fully committed to ensuring that pilgrims face no inconvenience. “We will make every effort to welcome our pilgrims so that there are no problems related to transport, shelters, health, food, or medical supplies,” he said.
He added that all relevant departments are working in coordination. “We reviewed how our transit camps are functioning. All the RTOs of my department, along with Directors and Secretaries of the Food Department, were present, and we discussed how to avoid any shortages,” he said.
So far, more than 3.5 lakh pilgrims have registered, Sharma said, adding that many more are expected through on-the-spot registrations. “We need to be prepared so there is no shortage of food supplies, no emergency issues, no problems with sugar stocks, or any difficulties faced by pony operators or hospitals. All these matters have been discussed thoroughly,” he added.
Regarding transportation, he stated that the Regional Transport Office (RTO) is guaranteeing sufficient bus services, and they will offer free transportation to women pilgrims. “Any transport demand from the public will be addressed on the spot,” he assured.
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