GANDERBAL: In a significant move to promote safe sanitation practices during the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, a captivating street play show was performed today by a group of artists at the Baltal Basecamp to educate and engage pilgrims, sanitation workers and stakeholders on the importance of maintaining hygiene throughout their sacred journey.

The awareness program was organized under the supervision of Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Secretary Rural Development and Panchayati Raj J&K with special emphasis on spreading critical messages on safe sanitation practices and hygiene.

The Nukkad Natak, a traditional street play, was strategically chosen for its impactful and direct communication style to skilfully convey critical messages about proper sanitation practices, waste disposal and personal hygiene, while also emphasizing public participation in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene.

Through lively performances and engaging storytelling, the audience was reminded of their role in preserving the cleanliness and sanctity of the yatra route.

A practical session was also held with sanitation workers deployed at Baltal Basecamp to educate them about proper handwashing practices under Stop Diarrhoea Campaign.

Director General, Rural Sanitation J&K, Anoo Malhotra emphasized the significance of such initiatives. "The street play is an excellent medium to reach out to a large number of pilgrims and stakeholders in an engaging and effective manner. Our goal is to ensure that every one is well-informed about safe sanitation practices, contributing to a cleaner and safer pilgrimage experience," she said.

The Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra attracts thousands of devotees each year, making sanitation and hygiene critical components for the health and safety of all participants.

The street play at Baltal Basecamp is part of a broader campaign to enhance awareness and encourage responsible behaviour among pilgrims.

The event was well-received by the audience, who appreciated the informative yet entertaining format and expressed their commitment to adhering to the sanitation guidelines and spreading the message further among fellow pilgrims.

As the yatra progresses, additional educational and awareness activities will be conducted to reinforce the importance of hygiene and sanitation. These efforts align with the broader mission of Swachh Bharat and aim to make the yatra a model of cleanliness and environmental sustainability.

Notably, an awareness session on the 'Stop Diarrhoea Campaign' was also held by Vinay Tiwari, PMU Head, to sensitize the devotees and service providers.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by the Camp Director, Harbans Lal and a Swachhata pledge, reaffirming the collective commitment to maintaining cleanliness and hygiene throughout the yatra.

Security Incharge Baltal axis SSP Sohram Singh, SP Ganderbal Ramesh Kumar, ACD Ganderbal Dr Bashir Ahmad, Additional Camp Director Hemant Vaid, ASP Ganderbal Aijaz Ahmad, Overall Sanitation Monitoring Officer, Aarif Sheikh, SHO Baltal, ASI CRPF, CMD Urban Enviro Waste Management Ltd, BDOs and other field officers were present on the occasion.