J&K: Another batch of pilgrims leaves for Amarnath Yatra from Pantha Chowk

Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], July 10 (ANI): Another batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims departs from the Pantha Chowk Yatra base camp for Baltal and Pahalgam routes amid high security.

Conducted by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, the Amarnath Yatra has two routes: one through Pahalgam and the other via Baltal.

Baltal serves as the camping ground for pilgrims in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Coming from Delhi, Sukhpal Singh, a Pilgrim told ANI, “We are going to undertake Amarnath Yatra via Baltal. I am excited. Facilities here are up to mark. Security has been deployed (to ensure smooth conduct of the Yatra). It is a moment of happiness”.

Sharing his excitement, Sunil another pilgrim who came from New Delhi told ANI, “We are going to Baltal. This time proper arrangements have been made. Army soldiers have been deployed to facilitate the Amarnath Yatra, and Jammu and Kashmir police also chipped in. Everyone should come and undertake the Amarnath Yatra,” he said.

Meanwhile, this year the Amarnath Yatra is taking place amid a significant increase in the number of terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.

Five Army soldiers lost their lives and as many as were injured in an ambush by terrorists in Kathua district on July 8.

Further, to ensure a safe and efficient movement of the pilgrims and commuters during the holy Amarnath Yatra, the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police issued an advisory on July 6 on the National Highway 44 — with cut-off timings and clear instructions for the various convoys and non-convoy movements.

This year, the yatra started on June 29 and will end on August 19, lasting 52 days. The devotees of Lord Shiva undertake the arduous annual pilgrimage to the holy cave which is located in the Kashmir Himalayas.