The Jammu and Kashmir Government has taken a significant step towards ensuring the environmental sustainability of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra 2024 by initiating the bidding process for waste management services. With the pilgrimage scheduled from June 20th to August 20th, 2024, the government aims to maintain a sustainable and zero landfill status throughout the event.

Under the directive of the Directorate of Rural Sanitation, Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Jammu & Kashmir, a comprehensive plan has been outlined. This plan encompasses the collection, transportation, processing, and disposal of solid waste generated at designated camps along the Yatra route.

Key elements of the plan include the primary and secondary collection of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) from specified collection points, deployment of manpower and transportation vehicles, and installation of waste collection bins. Special emphasis is placed on segregating organic waste and managing plastic waste effectively.

To ensure transparency and accountability, the appointed contractor will appoint a dedicated media liaison officer to facilitate media coverage of the pilgrimage. Additionally, Plastic Waste Collection Centers will be set up at key locations, and initiatives such as distributing cloth bags and providing free potable water through Water ATMs will be implemented.

A mobile application, SANJY2024, will be developed to provide essential information to pilgrims, including the locations of facilities and real-time weather forecasts. Moreover, the app will feature a grievance redressal system, allowing pilgrims to report cleanliness and sanitation issues.

With these measures in place, the Jammu and Kashmir Government aims to make the Amarnath Yatra 2024 not only spiritually enriching but also environmentally sustainable, setting a precedent for responsible pilgrimage management.