SAMBA: Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma today chaired a high-level meeting at the revered Baba Sidh Goria Shrine, Swankha, to evaluate the preparedness for the Annual Mela slated on July 6, 2025.

The meeting witnessed participation from officers of civil and police administration, health, members of shrine committee, and other departments, alongside local stakeholders.

The Deputy Commissioner directed departments concerned to undertake blacktopping and repair works on all major approach roads leading to the shrine, ensuring timely completion for the smooth movement of pilgrims. He underscored the importance of safety, accessibility and infrastructural readiness.

To ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply, the Jal Shakti Department was instructed to deploy additional water tankers and augment field-level arrangements. Civic authorities were asked to install mobile toilets and maintain high standards of cleanliness during the event.

Special focus was laid on hygiene management. The DC directed for installation of adequate dustbins and stringent sanitation protocols to accommodate the anticipated influx of devotees.

The preparedness review further encompassed security arrangements, fire safety readiness, and traffic regulation plans. The DC emphasized coordinated inter-departmental action, proactive field supervision and contingency preparedness to ensure a peaceful and well-regulated Mela.

The District Administration reiterated its commitment to providing a devotional, secure and seamless experience to all pilgrims attending the sacred gathering.