Examiner Bureau | Jammu:
Northern Railway has intensified security measures and upgraded passenger amenities at Jammu Railway Station to facilitate the smooth movement of pilgrims during the ongoing Shri Amarnath Yatra, officials said on Wednesday.
Officials of the Jammu Division said comprehensive arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safety, convenience and comfort of thousands of pilgrims arriving in the base city from across the country.
Senior railway officers and supervisors are monitoring the arrangements round the clock, while personnel of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and the Government Railway Police (GRP) have been deployed across the station premises to maintain security.
The railway station is under 24-hour CCTV surveillance through a central control room. In addition, ticket-checking staff are conducting regular patrols in coordination with RPF and GRP personnel to prevent any untoward incidents.
To improve passenger convenience, Northern Railway has set up dedicated help desks and information centres to assist pilgrims with travel-related queries. Additional drinking water facilities, sanitation staff and a 24×7 first-aid centre have also been arranged, while regular public announcements are being made regarding train operations and Yatra-related information.
Passengers are being kept informed about train schedules, delays and other operational updates through the public announcement system as well as SMS alerts, officials said.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu, Uchit Singhal, is personally overseeing the arrangements and reviewing preparedness to ensure efficient passenger services throughout the pilgrimage.
“The Amarnath Yatra is a symbol of faith and devotion. It is our commitment to ensure that every pilgrim completes the journey safely and with dignity. Our officers, supervisors, RPF and GRP teams are working round the clock, and additional arrangements will be made whenever required,” Singhal said.
The Jammu Division has appealed to passengers to follow railway announcements and contact the Rail Madad helpline (139) or the station help centre for any assistance during their journey.
The 57-day Shri Amarnath Yatra commenced on July 3 and will conclude on August 28, coinciding with the festival of Raksha Bandhan.