BANDIPORA: In connection with the forthcoming holy month of Muharram-Al- Haram, the Deputy Commissioner (DC), Bandipora, Dr. Owais Ahmad Saturday chaired a meeting of officers to review arrangements for its smooth celebration.
During the meeting threadbare discussion was held on arrangements like electricity, water supply, roads, ration, firewood, sanitation, Street lighting and medicare facilities.
Stressing on making adequate arrangements, the DC instructed the officers to ensure all necessary arrangements are made well before commencement of the holy month of Muharram. He asked the officers to put in place all arrangements to ensure all religious gatherings and processions are held smoothly and peacefully.
The DC instructed authorities of PHE to ensure uninterrupted water supply to all areas and deploy water tankers as per the requirement at all Imam Baras. Similarly, KPDCL authorities were directed to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply and no curtailment during the holy month.
The DC emphasized on installation of street lights at all required places and ensure immediate restoration of all defunct street lights in all urban and rural areas.
Stressing on maintaining proper hygiene and cleanliness, the DC instructed the concerned to launch special sanitation drives around Imam Baras and procession sites. He also instructed that medical teams along with ambulances shall be deployed to ensure first aid and other medical facilities to the mourners.
The DC emphasized on the occasion for strict adherence to Covid Appropriate Behaviour during Muharram-ul-Haram besides aggressive sampling at imambaras. He laid emphasis on following SOPs as issued from time to time by the Government so as to restrict spread of Covid-19. The health Department shall circulate an advisory related to do’s and don’ts of Covid-19, the DC instructed.
The DC informed the meeting that all SDMs and Tehsildars shall hold meetings within their jurisdiction and discuss and resolve issues if any pertaining to Muharram-ul-Haram at their level. Similarly it was also revealed in the meeting that all concerned line departments shall perform their assigned task pertaining to Muharram-ul-Haram in proper manner.
The meeting was attended by Superintendent of Police Mohammad Zahid Malik, ASP Ashiq Tak, SD Sumbal Dr Bashir Ahmad, representatives of religious organizations of Shia Community and other senior officers of the district.