Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday visited the Kheer Bhawani Temple in the Ganderbal district to review preparations for the upcoming annual Kheer Bhawani Mela. The visit comes ahead of the major pilgrimage event, which is expected to draw hundreds of devotees, primarily Kashmiri Pandits, to the revered shrine of Goddess Ragnya Devi at Tulmulla.
During his visit, Abdullah inspected the facilities being arranged for devotees and assessed the overall preparedness for the smooth conduct of the annual fair, scheduled for June 22. He also interacted with temple priests and local stakeholders, who reportedly raised several concerns regarding arrangements. The Chief Minister assured that necessary steps would be taken to address these issues before the commencement of the mela.
Speaking to reporters after offering prayers at the temple, Abdullah said he visited both in his official capacity as Chief Minister and as the MLA from Ganderbal. He described the occasion as significant, noting that devotees from across India and abroad visit the shrine to seek blessings. He added that the government is committed to ensuring a safe and well-organised pilgrimage experience for all participants.
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The Chief Minister also extended his remarks to the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, which is scheduled to begin on July 3 under the supervision of the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board. He said while the board holds primary responsibility for the pilgrimage arrangements, the Union Territory administration continues to extend full support to ensure smooth conduct of the annual religious यात्रा.
Abdullah further urged pilgrims participating in both the Kheer Bhawani Mela and the Amarnath Yatra to pray for peace and communal harmony in Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasised the importance of these religious gatherings in promoting unity and brotherhood across communities in the region.
On administrative issues, the Chief Minister also addressed concerns related to irrigation in parts of Ganderbal, stating that efforts are underway to mitigate water shortages through canal systems and other measures. He added that recent rainfall had helped ease the situation, and officials have been directed to address remaining issues on a priority basis.
He also clarified that Kashmiri Pandit housing colonies being developed in regions such as Shopian and Pulwama are transit accommodations for PM package employees, a project that began during the tenure of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and continues to progress to improve living conditions for relocated workers.
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