Srinagar, June 28: The Jammu and Kashmir Hotels and Restaurants Association (JKHARA) on Saturday urged the administration to provide adequate and efficient facilities for Amarnath pilgrims during the ongoing Yatra, calling for improved crowd management, healthcare support, and infrastructure upgrades.
In a statement, JKHARA President Babar Chowdhary said that during a recent civil society interaction with the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha—also attended by former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and other senior officials—the Association submitted a detailed memorandum aimed at enhancing the pilgrim experience.
“We highlighted the urgent need for structured crowd control mechanisms, round-the-clock medical facilities, proper sanitation, and shelter arrangements at key points along the pilgrimage route,” Chowdhary said.
He noted that while the government has made commendable efforts for smooth conduct of the Yatra, there are still areas requiring focused attention to ensure the comfort and safety of pilgrims, especially during peak days of the journey.
Chowdhary also emphasised the role of the hospitality sector in supporting the Yatra and reiterated JKHARA’s commitment to coordinate with authorities to facilitate better services.
Babar Chowdhary called for stronger inter-departmental coordination and continuous monitoring to address real-time issues faced by yatris.
JKHARA further suggested that steps such as designated medical camps, digital registration counters, and crowd dispersal plans be implemented rigorously to avoid congestion and distress during the pilgrimage.
The Association expressed hope that the administration would consider its recommendations and take swift action to elevate the standard of arrangements for the Amarnath Yatra 2025.
