J&K: DoT enhances telecom infrastructure for Amarnath Yatra 2024

New Delhi [India], July 8 (ANI): The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has announced significant improvements in telecom infrastructure to ensure seamless mobile connectivity for pilgrims participating in the Amarnathji Yatra 2024.

In collaboration with major Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) including Airtel, BSNL, and Reliance JIO, the infrastructure has been upgraded to provide continuous coverage along the Yatra routes.

To ensure coverage, a total of 82 sites (Airtel, RJIL and BSNL) shall be active. A total of 31 new sites have been installed along the Yatra routes, increasing the total number from 51 in 2023 to 82 in 2024. This enhancement aims to provide seamless mobile connectivity to the pilgrims and the public.

The routes from Lakhanpur to Qazigund and from Qazigund to Pahalgam and Baltal are fully covered with 2G, 3G, and 4G, including 5G technology at many places for pilgrims and the public.

Some key points of SIM distribution centres have been opened apart from other locations to extend telecom facilitation to Yatris.

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 shrine located in the Kashmir Himalayas in July-August.

Conducted by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, the Amarnath Yatra has two routes through Pahalgam and via Baltal. Baltal serves as the camping ground for pilgrims in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir.

This year, the Yatra is taking place in the shadow of recent terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.