• Directs PWD to ensure all roads leading to the holy city are fully functional by mid-November
• Education Minister reviews comprehensive arrangements for lakhs of devotees expected at the historic Samagam
Chandigarh, October 9:
Punjab Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains today directed the Public Works Department (PWD) and other concerned authorities to ensure that all roads leading to Sri Anandpur Sahib are repaired and made fully functional by mid-November, to facilitate the smooth and safe travel of lakhs of devotees expected to gather for the upcoming 350th Martyrdom Day of Ninth Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji.
Chairing a high-level meeting with Ropar district authorities and officials of various departments here at the Punjab Civil Secretariat to review the preparations for the historic occasion, S. Bains gave strict instructions for the timely completion of all basic amenities, with a special emphasis on road infrastructure.
The Education Minister stressed that providing seamless connectivity to the holy city is a top priority for the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. He instructed officials to ensure that all approach roads to Sri Anandpur Sahib are in perfect condition, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for the pilgrims arriving from across India and abroad.
Detailing the broader arrangements, S. Bains said that alongside robust road infrastructure, the government is ensuring operational street lights, proper sanitation, ample drinking water facilities, and a sufficient number of public toilets across key routes and congregation points. He further emphasized setting up designated parking areas with proper signage, lighting, and accessible medical facilities for the convenience of the devotees.
To enrich the spiritual experience of the pilgrims, S. Bains directed the installation of LED screens at various prominent locations to showcase the glorious history and significance of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s life and the sacred sites of the region.
Reiterating the government’s commitment, Harjot Singh Bains said that all departments, including PWD, Local Government, Tourism, Police, Health, and Power, have been directed to work in close coordination and complete all arrangements well in advance. He urged the officers to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, discipline, and devotee-friendly management throughout the celebrations.
The Punjab Government is fully committed to ensuring a memorable, safe, and spiritually enriching experience for all devotees attending the 350th Shaheedi Samagam of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, he added.
Prominent officers present in the meeting included ADC Ropar Pooja Sayal, SDM Jaspreet Singh, RTA Gurvinder Singh Johal, BBMB Chief Engineer NP Singh, XEN Harjot Walia, XEN Harjit Singh, XEN S.S. Bhullar along with officials from various departments.
