CM Omar chairs high-level meeting to review Muharram arrangements

Srinagar, Jun 18 (PTI) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Wednesday chaired a high-level meeting here to review and finalise arrangements for the upcoming Islamic holy month of Muharram.

The chief minister reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to ensure that all arrangements for Muharram are made with utmost efficiency and care.

"We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts, and there should be no shortcoming from our side," Abdullah said.

The meeting was attended by J&K ministers, CM's advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, senior officers of police and civil administration, MLAs, and prominent heads of Shia and other religious organizations.

Highlighting the significance of the meeting, the CM said the very size and composition of this meeting reflects the importance "we attach to the sacred month of Muharram".

Abdullah emphasized that administrative focus should not be limited to just the first 10 days of Muharram.

"The rituals and religious observances of Muharram span two months and eight days. The government must remain responsive even beyond the 10th day of Muharram," he stressed.

Acknowledging that this year Muharram coincides with the Amarnath Yatra, the chief minister noted the increased responsibility on the administration to ensure the smooth conduct of both events.

In this context, he announced the appointment of a secretary-level nodal officer, independent of the divisional commissioner,” to coordinate inter-departmental efforts and oversee Muharram arrangements across the Union Territory.

Abdullah outlined key focus areas during the meeting.

He assured uninterrupted water availability through the deployment of tankers and installation of storage tanks at key locations.

The Power Development Department was directed to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply and to install high-mast lights at major congregation points.

Abdullah instructed the Food Department, in coordination with FCI, to ensure timely availability of ration.

During the meeting, municipal bodies and the Health Department were asked to intensify sanitation drives and ensure the availability of essential healthcare services.

Fire and Emergency Services was asked to use high-pressure water canons to clean congregation areas.

The chief minister said that the newly appointed nodal officer will coordinate efforts across departments and districts, and report regularly to avoid any lapses.

Earlier, the divisional commissioner Kashmir gave a presentation on the planned arrangements for Muharram, covering key areas such as power, water, ration supply, sanitation, and infrastructure readiness in Shia-dominated areas.

The meeting also deliberated on issues related to macadamisation, street lighting, road repair, and other civic amenities required during the observance.

Legislators and religious leaders present in the meeting provided valuable feedback and suggestions to enhance the effectiveness of the arrangements. PTI SSB KVK KVK