sdm-orders-vacating-hotels-shops-for-pilgrim-safety-in-katra

In what can be seen as a big move , the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Katra Piyush Dhotra in Jammu region has ordered the immediate vacation of all commercial establishments, including hotels and dharamshalas, from Asia Chowk to Balini Bridge and from Balini Bridge to Darshani Deodi. The move has been initiated for the safety of pilgrims staying in these hotels amid heavy rains and frequent landslides in Katra.
 
In exercise of powers conferred under Section 163 of BNS-2023, the order has been issued in view of vulnerability to landslides and in the larger interest of pilgrim safety withe immediate effect and will remain in place till these establishments obtain safety certificate from the concerned authorities.The order further says that in view of present circumstances it is not possible to serve prior notices to the commercial establishments as such it is being issued ex-parte. Any violation of the order shall invite strict punitive action under section 223 of BNS, it further said.

 

Pertinently, in view rains, and inclement weather conditions triggering massive landslides and sinking of roads at few places, The order has been issued in view of vulnerability to landslides and in the larger interest of pilgrim safety with immediate effect and will remain in place till these establishments obtain safety certificate from the concerned authorities.possible damages . This has these have become vulnerable to future landslides or damages. This has the potential to endanger human lives keeping in view huge number of pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. 

 

In view of huge loss of lives during recent landlsides incident at a Bhojnalaya, it has therefore become imperative to assess the safety of the structures of commercial establishments located in Katra for the overall safety and security of the pilgrims before the latter are allowed to enter or stay in these commercial spaces.

The administration has also said that continued operation and functionality of these commercial establishments at vulnerable places poses risk to public safety which is why this action has been necessitated. The order further said the preventive measures are necessary to avoid any untoward incident and to ensure smooth regulation of public order , pilgrim safety being utmost priority at the Holy township.