Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently led a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat to finalize arrangements for the upcoming holy month of Muharram. The meeting, which included officers from various locations participating via video conference, underscored the government’s strong commitment to ensuring all necessary provisions are made.
“We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts, and there should be no shortcoming from our side,” Chief Minister Abdullah asserted, emphasizing the importance placed on Muharram by the sheer scale and composition of the meeting. He stressed that administrative focus should extend beyond the first ten days, as Muharram rituals and observances span “two months and eight days.”
Recognizing that Muharram this year coincides with the Amarnath Yatra, the Chief Minister announced the appointment of a Secretary-level Nodal Officer. This officer, independent of the Divisional Commissioner, will coordinate inter-departmental efforts and oversee Muharram arrangements across the Union Territory, addressing the increased administrative responsibility.
Key areas of focus outlined during the meeting include:
- Electricity and Lighting: The Power Development Department was directed to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply and install high-mast lights at major congregation points.
- Ration and Firewood: The Food Department, in coordination with FCI, will ensure timely availability of ration, with firewood specifically provided in rural areas where demand is higher.
- Sanitation and Health: Municipal bodies and the Health Department are tasked with intensifying sanitation drives and ensuring essential healthcare services. Fire and Emergency Services will utilize high-pressure water cannons for cleaning congregation areas.
The newly appointed Nodal Officer will be responsible for coordinating efforts across departments and districts, providing regular reports to prevent any lapses.
Earlier in the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir presented the planned arrangements, covering critical areas such as power, water, ration supply, sanitation, and infrastructure readiness in Shia-dominated regions. Discussions also covered macadamization, street lighting, road repair, and other civic amenities. Legislators and religious leaders present offered valuable feedback to enhance the arrangements.
The meeting saw the attendance of several key figures, including Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, various ministers, advisors, the Chief Secretary, administrative secretaries, the Inspector General of Police Kashmir, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Deputy Commissioners from several districts, Members of the Legislative Assembly, senior officers from line departments, and prominent heads of Shia and religious organizations.
