J-K: Another batch of pilgrims leave for Amarnath Yatra

Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], July 29 (ANI): A fresh batch of pilgrims leaves for the Amarnath yatra with great enthusiasm from the Panthachowk Srinagar base camp under tight security measures. The pilgrims left for the Baltal and Pahalgam yatra base camps, where they would seek blessings and connect with their faith.

Hemlata, who is travelling to Amarnath for the first time, said, “The real satisfaction is after reaching Amarnath; it feels good when we get a chance to go there after a tiring journey; the arrangements are so good.”

“We have been treated well everywhere. Securities are behaving well to make us comfortable. The medical facilities are also quite good. We were planning for a long time to come to Amarnath but this year this has been possible,” she added.

Abhisekh from Faridabad said that this is my second yatra to Amarnath.

“I love to come here; I don’t go to any other yatra. The facilities here are so good. People fear Kashmir but they should try to come,” he added.

The Shri Amranathji Shrine Board organises the Amarnath Yatra, which is divided into two routes, one through Pahalgam and the other through Baltal in the Ganderbal district of Kashmir. Baltal serves as the camping ground for pilgrims in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Yatra, which commenced formally on June 29 from the Baltal and Pahalgam base camps in Kashmir, is scheduled to conclude on August 19.

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

Earlier on July 24, Inspector General of Police Kashmir, V.K. Birdi, convened a Joint Security Review Meeting at Nunwan Base Camp, Pahalgam. IGP Kashmir directed all security agencies to work in close coordination to ensure a safe and secure Amarnath Yatra.

The meeting also focused on strategies to counter terrorism and maintain law and order in the Pahalgam axis. The review meeting underscored the commitment of all stakeholders to ensure the safety and security of the Amarnath Yatra pilgrims.

Devotees of Lord Shiva undertake this arduous annual pilgrimage to the holy cave located in the South Kashmir Himalayas.