Excelsior Correspondent
KISHTWAR, Aug 6: The ongoing Shree Machail Mata Ji Yatra 2023 has been transformed into a more comfortable, enjoyable and safe journey for on-foot pilgrims, thanks to the recent opening of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Road by the District Administration Kishtwar.
Significantly, this achievement marks a major milestone for the PMGSY Division Kishtwar, as it successfully cleared the challenging rocky stretch on Machail Road in an impressively short span of time.
The instrumental role of recently retired Executive Engineer of PMGSY Division Kishtwar, Mohinder Kumar Sen, cannot be overlooked. With dedicated efforts, he mobilized extra manpower and machinery, working in double shifts to ensure the timely completion of the project. Mohinder Sen’s leadership has significantly contributed in facilitating this year’s Yatra, providing a major boost to the development of the road leading to the Bhawan of Shree Machail Mata.
Road cutting in crucial rocky stretch has resulted in achieving the significant progress on this road, which is now being used by pilgrims up to Hamouri Village for on foot journey.
With the partially constructed PMGSY road now accessible, Yatries can trek on foot to the Bhawan, cutting travel time by 1.5 – 2 hours and making the journey less fatiguing compared to the steep and challenging terrains, pilgrims had to endure previously.
Additionally, the installation of railings by 17 RR of the Indian Army on the Mov bridge has significantly enhanced the safety of pilgrims during their journey.
Furthermore, under the overall supervision of Divisional Commissioner Jammu and under the close supervision of Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Dr. Devansh Yadav, the district and local administration has been tirelessly working to extend all possible support, ensuring the Yatries’ spiritual journey remains easy and memorable.
The public and pilgrims currently undertaking the Shree Machail Mata Yatra express their heartfelt appreciation to the PMGSY authorities and District Administration Kishtwar for their swift and dedicated efforts regarding the PMGSY road and other necessary facilities.
Even during challenging times, the collaboration between the Indian Army and the District Administration has been lauded by pilgrims, who extend their gratitude for ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. These joint efforts have made the pilgrimage more accessible, contributing to the success of the Shree Machail Mata Yatra.