SRINAGAR, May 20: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Monday chaired a high-level meeting to review preparations for the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, scheduled to be held on June 3 at Tulmulla in Ganderbal district.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the civil and police administration, including the Divisional Commissioners of Jammu and Kashmir, Additional Chief Secretary Jal Shakti, Principal Secretary Home, and representatives from departments such as Tourism, Health, Transport, Urban Local Bodies, and Relief and Rehabilitation. Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police from various districts also participated virtually.
Dulloo directed both divisional administrations to ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place for the smooth and successful conduct of the festival, which attracts a large number of Kashmiri Pandit devotees each year. He emphasized a coordinated approach among departments to ensure seamless transportation, adequate accommodation, sanitation, uninterrupted power supply, safe drinking water, medical aid, and robust security arrangements.
The Chief Secretary also reviewed road conditions, night stay provisions, essential supplies, and sanitation measures. He stressed the importance of maintaining cleanliness in and around the temple complex and ensuring effective waste management throughout the festival.
The Divisional Commissioner Kashmir briefed the meeting on transport and accommodation arrangements, traffic management plans, medical support, and efforts to ensure uninterrupted services. Departments including Housing and Urban Development, Rural Development, Health, Tourism, and Transport informed the meeting about steps taken to facilitate the event. Designated nodal officers from each department will oversee the implementation of these arrangements.
Provisions have also been made for waterproof tents, cleanliness drives, and desilting of canals within the temple premises. The Police Department assured that comprehensive security measures are in place to ensure a peaceful and incident-free celebration.
The Kheer Bhawani Mela, held annually at the revered shrine of Ragnya Devi in Tulmulla, is one of the most significant religious events for the Kashmiri Pandit community.
