The death toll on the Amarnath Yatra route continues to climb and with it the anger of Mr Harinder Sikka, Managing Director, Piramal Systems & Technologies. With 97 pilgrim dead in 45 days since the start of the Yatra, the Piramal Group is stepping in to help.

More than just a corporate social responsibility (CSR) effort, the Group is planning anti-skid tracks from Panchtarni to the holy shrine and the construction of heated shelters every 500 metres.

“How many more people have to die before the authorities wake up and take notice? Why does the government hesitate to ensure adequate medical aid? Why can't we, as humans, arrest the growing number of casualties,” asks Mr Sikka, who has visited the shrine and has met the authorities and apprised them of the appalling conditions.

On July 20, expressing shock over the growing number of pilgrim deaths, the Supreme Court took suo motu notice of the issue and set up a panel to examine the lack of proper infrastructure and medical support for the pilgrims. The 13-member panel is to recommend measures to prevent more deaths. Meanwhile, the Piramal Group has submitted an affidavit saying it wants to offer its assistance.

“We have thoroughly examined the area. We decided to look at this particular stretch from Panchtarni to the holy shrine, from where maximum deaths have been reported. As a concerned corporate citizen, we wish to render a voluntary service,” said Mr Ajay Piramal, Chairman, Piramal Group.

An impatient Mr Sikka added, “We can lay the anti-skid track in three months. It will be 6-km long with 12 shelters every 500 metres. We can ensure adequate medical attention. Laying an anti-skid track is no rocket science. We do not need state funds.”.

Refusing to speak about the money to be invested, Mr Sikka added, “The SC has granted us permission to take approval from the committee. We have the mandate. Now, can we go ahead?”

>amritanair.ghaswalla@thehindu.co.in

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