Sri Anandpur Sahib, March 2: To enhance religious tourism and devotee comfort, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains on Monday announced the opening of India’s first permanent, air-conditioned tent city at Sri Anandpur Sahib. Speaking at Punjab Bhawan, the Minister stated that the facility was established following the success of temporary structures last year and a subsequent directive from Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to provide year-round accommodation for pilgrims.
The Minister affirmed that the government is prioritizing environmental sustainability by designating this year’s celebrations as “Green Hola Mohalla.” He noted that a total ban on single-use plastics has been enforced, with the Punjab Pollution Control Board providing biodegradable alternatives for all langar organizers. “Every plate, cup and utensil used will be made of biodegradable, non-plastic material,” Dr. Bains asserted.
To facilitate the massive influx of visitors, the administration has established 28 parking zones and two specialized “Trolley Cities” equipped with CCTV, bathrooms, and information screens. The Minister maintained that 100 e-rickshaws have been deployed to ferry devotees to Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib and other holy sites. He also declared that the festivities would be elevated by a grand fireworks display at Virasat-e-Khalsa on March 2 and 3.
Dr. Bains stated that security and health have been addressed with a three-layer barricading system for the main procession and Aam Aadmi Clinics stationed at every parking lot. He asserted that these arrangements demonstrate the seriousness of the Prime Minister’s Office and the state government toward preserving heritage while ensuring the safety of the global Sikh sangat.
