J&K promoting sustainable tourism: LG Sinha

Srinagar, June 22: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Saturday said that Jammu and Kashmir was promoting sustainable tourism and the objective of the government was to ensure a zero-waste Amarnath Yatra.

Launching various Swachh initiatives of the Directorate of Rural Sanitation for Amarnath Yatra 2024 at the Raj Bhawan, LG Sinha in his address commended the Directorate of Rural Sanitation.

He said that the new logo, Swachh Yatra Anthem, website, and mobile application will greatly benefit the objective of zero-waste yatra.

The LG highlighted the integrated strategy of the J&K administration and Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) aimed at zero-waste, a clean and efficient sanitation system, and complete protection of natural resources and the environment.

“J&K is at the forefront of promoting sustainable tourism. For this holy yatra, we have worked a solution through the fusion of technology and human resources,” he said.

Speaking on the new endeavours, LG Sinha said the logo symbolises the resolve to make the yatra memorable.

“A dedicated website shivamsankalpamastu.in and Nandi - the Yatra Saarthi app will be accurate info source related to yatra and sanitation,” he said.

The LG also lauded the initiatives aimed at creating awareness among the yatris and all the stakeholders.

He said that the anthem ‘Chal Amarnath’ symbolises the convergence of spirituality, natural heritage, and ecology.

LG Sinha called upon the officials and all stakeholders to make dedicated efforts for the installation of all the requisite facilities given the annual yatra on priority.

He emphasised the sensitisation of sanitation workers on cleanliness and hygiene.

“We need to pay special attention towards environment-friendly disposal of solid waste and piped water and power connection, lighting, and availability of necessary facilities at all toilets,” the LG said.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) SASB, Mandeep Kumar Bhandari; Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department, Shahid Iqbal Choudhary; Director General (DG) Rural Sanitation, Anoo Malhotra, and other senior officials attended the launch ceremony.