KISHTWAR, AUGUST 03: Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma today visited Machail Mata temple and conducted a detailed review of the arrangements put in place by the District Administration for the convenience and safety of the pilgrims.
The annual Shri Machail Mata Ji Yatra 2026 was resumed on July 28, witnessing increasing footfall of devotees from across the country.
He interacted with locals and assessed the ground situation while reviewing the effectiveness of the infrastructure and services being made available for the smooth and successful conduct of the yatra.
The DC reviewed key arrangements, including parking facilities, transportation, water supply, power, sanitation, accommodation facilities for pilgrims, security measures and the progress of ongoing developmental works at Shri Machail Mata Bhawan. He issued on-the-spot directions to the concerned officials to ensure the smooth movement of pilgrims, strengthen safety measures and ensure that no pilgrim faces any inconvenience during the yatra.
The DC also took stock of the availability of essential services and commodities at the Bhawan. He directed the concerned departments to expedite the pace of ongoing works and complete the same within the stipulated timelines.
The DC directed the Yatra Camp Director to make all necessary facilities available to provide a comfortable and hassle-free pilgrimage experience to the devotees.
Emphasising the importance of this year’s 100% plastic-free yatra, the DC directed the enforcement departments to maintain cleanliness and sanitation throughout the yatra period. He also appealed to pilgrims to avoid the use of single-use plastic, maintain cleanliness and keep the yatra route clean and hygienic. BDO Paddar was directed to undertake the repair, renovation and restoration of Durga Raru Khul towards Machail to meet the demands raised by the locals.
The locals apprised the Deputy Commissioner of various issues concerning the area. The DC gave a patient hearing and issued on-the-spot directions to the concerned departments for necessary action.
The Deputy Commissioner also interacted with the NDRF Team stationed at Machail, reviewed their preparedness. He directed the NDRF Team to stay vigilant throughout the yatra period to tackle any unforeseen situation.
The DC paid obeisance at the revered shrine, praying for peace, prosperity and well-being of the people of the District.
ADC Pawan Kotwal; SDM Dr. Amit Kumar; Camp Director SMMJY 2026 Subhash Thakur; BDO Rajesh Sharma; Executive Engineer PWD R&B Paddar Er. Gurjeet Singh; besides other officers and concerned staff were present on the occasion.
