Srinagar October 01:(KNS) Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary Thursday visited the shrine of Hazrat Sheikh Hamza Makhoom Kashmiri – popularly known as Makhdoom Sahib – to inspect the arrangements put in place for the ongoing annual Urs of the revered Sufi saint.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar M Haneef Balkhi and senior officers of concerned departments accompanied him.

During the visit the DC sought details of arrangements different departments have made at the shrine for the annual Urs. He also interacted with office bearers of the shrine management and sought details of arrangements made at their end.

He directed for ensuring adequate arrangements of all kinds for smooth observance of the Urs — instructing for availability of uninterrupted drinking water and power supplies, adequate transport and parking facilities, cleanliness and first aid arrangements.

Dr Shahid emphasised strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols throughout the period of the Urs observance at the shrine. He directed for setting up a sampling unit outside the shrine for the visiting devotees who wish to get tested for COVID-19.

During the visit the DC also inspected the developmental scenario of the popular shrine and the works approved or in progress for improving its facilities.

The annual Urs of the revered saint is held for 13 days beginning 12 Safar al-Muzaffar of the Islamic calendar. The Urs started two days ago on September 29 and will conclude on October 12.(KNS)