DC Mukesh Repswal Reviews Preparations; NDRF and SDRF to Be Deployed for Enhanced Safety

Chamba, August 19, 2026: Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repswal has directed all concerned departments to complete preparations for Shri Manimahesh Yatra-2026 within the stipulated timeline, with a focus on safety, efficient management and adequate facilities for pilgrims.

Repswal chaired a review meeting on Wednesday to assess preparations for the annual pilgrimage and also reviewed compliance with decisions taken during the previous meeting.

He said security arrangements would be strengthened through the deployment of NDRF and SDRF personnel, in addition to the police force. He directed officials to ensure adequate drinking water, electricity, healthcare, sanitation and other essential facilities throughout the pilgrimage route.

For effective management, the entire pilgrimage area has been divided into different sectors, while satellite phones have been arranged at various locations to strengthen communication during the yatra.

Permission Mandatory for Parikrama Route via Kugti

The Deputy Commissioner directed ADM Bharmour to ensure that pilgrims coming from outside the area are not permitted to proceed towards the Parikrama route via Kugti without prior permission.

He also directed the authorities to take strict action under the applicable rules against people consuming tobacco at public places during the pilgrimage.

Traffic and Pilgrim Facilities to Be Strengthened

Repswal directed the SDMs of Chamba, Salooni and Bharmour to complete all arrangements related to the yatra in their respective jurisdictions well in advance.

The SDM Salooni was instructed to ensure smooth connectivity on routes used by pilgrims arriving from Bhaderwah and Doda in Jammu, keeping in view the expected number of devotees, and to maintain special vigil over traffic management.

The SDM Chamba was directed to ensure adequate arrangements for accommodation, drinking water and public toilets for pilgrims at Chaugan No. 1.

The Deputy Commissioner also directed officials to ensure that weather updates are communicated regularly to all concerned departments. Police authorities were asked to regulate the movement of horses and mules carrying essential supplies during night hours.

Route Improvement and Separate Paths for Pilgrims and Mules

During the meeting, ADM Bharmour said preparations for the yatra were nearly complete. He informed that the route from Hadsar to the holy lake is being widened at required locations and repair work on stretches damaged by heavy rainfall last year has been completed.

Personnel from the Public Works Department and police will be deployed wherever required. Separate routes will be maintained for pedestrians and mules, while signboards will be installed at strategic locations to guide pilgrims and facilitate movement.

Seven Medical Teams to Be Deployed

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jalam Singh Bhardwaj informed the meeting that seven medical teams have been deployed to provide healthcare services during the pilgrimage.

The teams have been equipped with essential medicines, oxygen cylinders and other necessary medical equipment to respond to health emergencies along the yatra route.

The meeting was attended by SDM Chirag Sharma, CMO Dr. Jalam Singh Bhardwaj, District Ayush Officer Dr. Anita Sharma and other senior officials. The SDM Salooni also participated through virtual mode.

The district administration has emphasised coordinated inter-departmental preparedness to ensure that Manimahesh Yatra-2026 remains safe, orderly and accessible for devotees.