The Additional Secretary and Mission Director of the National Jal Jeevan Mission (NJJM), Kamal Kishore Soan, reviewed sanitation and solid waste management arrangements along the Baltal axis ahead of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026. He inaugurated an information, education and communication exhibition under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) at the Baltal Base Camp and inspected facilities established for the pilgrimage. The visit formed part of preparations to ensure a clean, hygienic and environmentally sustainable event.

Soan was received by the Director General, Rural Sanitation, Jammu and Kashmir, Anoo Malhotra, and inspected sanitation infrastructure and facilities along the Baltal route. He reviewed the preparedness of sanitation workers and support systems to maintain hygiene across challenging terrain and weather conditions.

The Additional Secretary visited the solid waste management plant at Domail Camp and assessed arrangements for the collection, segregation, processing and scientific disposal of waste generated during the annual pilgrimage. He engaged with sanitation workers and noted their dedication in maintaining cleanliness despite operational difficulties and physical strain. The assessment included checks on equipment, logistical support and procedures to handle increased waste volumes during peak movement.

The IEC exhibition showcased a biogas model, waste-to-art displays, a bartan bank and stalls promoting sustainable sanitation practices and responsible waste management. As part of the Swachh Yatra Campaign, zero point one five mn jute bags will be distributed among pilgrims to discourage the use of single-use plastic and polythene and encourage environmentally responsible practices during the pilgrimage. Soan appreciated the efforts of the Directorate of Rural Sanitation and the Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Jammu and Kashmir, and emphasised the need for sustained cleanliness and scientific waste management. Assistant Commissioner Panchayat Ganderbal, sanitation officers and officials from the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) and the NJJM accompanied the Additional Secretary during the visit.