Imran shah
Kishtwar, DD, In view of the upcoming Annual Ashtadashbhuja Mata Sarthal Devi Yatra scheduled to commence on July 3, a mega cleanliness and anti-polythene drive was carried out today at Sarthal by the Block Development Office, Trigam. The drive was conducted under the directions of Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma (JKAS), and overall supervision of Assistant Commissioner Development Kishtwar, Kaiser Ahmed Bhawani (JKAS).
Block Development Officer Trigam, Roopesh Sharma, along with his office staff and local residents, led the initiative which began early in the morning. The activity involved sweeping, garbage collection, weed removal, cleaning of pathways, installation of dustbins, and lime-lining of roads — all aimed at preparing the pilgrimage site with cleanliness and reverence.
Speaking on the occasion, BDO Roopesh Sharma highlighted the need for active community participation in maintaining public and religious spaces. “Cleanliness is not just a responsibility but a reflection of our respect towards our heritage and environment,” he stated.
The cleanliness drive was aligned with the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, reaffirming the government’s vision of a clean and green India. The operation commenced from the Welcome Gate at Agral Sarthal and proceeded downwards towards the Sarthal Devi shrine, culminating at the lower bus stand.
Dustbins were installed within the temple premises and marketplace, and people and pilgrims were urged not to litter or discard plastic waste openly, but instead use the bins and uphold the sanctity of the holy site.
Additionally, as per the orders of Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar regarding the ban on polythene bags less than 120 microns and non-woven plastic bags below 60 GSM, a market inspection was conducted by BDO Roopesh Sharma in Sarthal. Shopkeepers were directed to adhere strictly to the environmental guidelines. It was observed that permissible carry bags were being used.
The BDO cautioned that violations would attract strict penalties, including referral to the police for legal action. He also ensured that shopkeepers, pilgrims, and local residents provided a written affirmation stating they would not throw garbage within a 500-meter radius of the temple and would encourage others to maintain cleanliness.
The initiative received enthusiastic support from the locals and reflected a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and devotion to the religious and cultural significance of the Mata Sarthal Yatra.DD