Special Focus on Traditional Routes, Basic Amenities & Eid-e-Ghadeer Preparations
Srinagar, 12 June(KNB): Representatives of the All Jammu & Kashmir Shia Association (AJKSA) today participated in a crucial preparatory meeting chaired by the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir at his office in Srinagar. The meeting, attended by all District Development Commissioners from across Kashmir Valley, was focused on ensuring smooth and coordinated arrangements ahead of the upcoming Muharram observances.
During the meeting, the AJKSA team raised several important issues and put forth detailed suggestions to facilitate a peaceful and dignified Muharram. A major demand was the establishment of a dedicated Muharram War Room in each district, to be headed by a designated District Coordinator, ensuring round-the-clock coordination and grievance redressal during the period of mourning.
The Association also strongly reiterated the long-pending request for permission to conduct traditional Muharram processions on the historic route from Abi Guzar to Zadibal, while also proposing an alternative route to Zadibal for consideration to accommodate current ground realities.
Concerns related to basic civic amenities were highlighted with urgency. These included:
•Acute water shortage in areas such as Boni Bagh (Bagwanpora), Dal, Qureshi Mohallah (Lal Bazaar), Zadibal, Budgam, and Chinabal (Pattan), Sonwari
•Request for additional ration supplies and firewood at subsidized rates for households during the mourning days.
•Repair and black-topping of inner lanes and roads through which major processions will pass.
•Dedicated parking spaces near large procession gatherings.
•Immediate action on provocative or sensitive social media posts that could disturb communal harmony.
•Ensuring 24×7 power supply, adequate street lighting, and timely sanitation and waste management in Shia-dominated localities.
•Availability of emergency medical services, especially highlighting the need to repair the drainage system outside PHC Zadibal to avoid waterlogging and health hazards.
Lastly, the Association urged the administration to make special arrangements for Eid-e-Ghadeer, falling on Sunday, with additional electricity and sanitation support to cater to the expected gatherings and religious events.
The Association expressed hope that all departments will work in synergy under the Divisional Administration’s leadership to ensure a smooth, respectful, and safe Muharram across Kashmir.(KNB)