J&K: Fresh batch of pilgrims embarks on Amarnath Yatra under tight security

Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], July 26 (ANI): Another fresh batch of pilgrims left on Friday for the Amarnath Yatra from the Panthachwok Srinagar base camp under tight security measures.

The pilgrims set out for the holy shrine, heading towards the base camps of the Baltal and Pahalgam Yatras to connect with their faith and seek blessings.

Prem Sharma, a pilgrim, said, “The facilities provided at the base camp are really good. The security is tight and the CRPF teams go with us to the base camps and also bring us back safely. I will pray for the safety of Kashmir. Everyone should come here at least once.”

Devendra Sharma, another pilgrim, said, “I am feeling very good. All the arrangements made here are really good. The security measures taken are very top-notch. This is the first time we have come here and we wish to come again.”

“The security arrangements made are really good. Women are also able to roam around freely. The CRFPF teams have done a commendable job,” said Sunita Sharma, a pilgrim from Jaipur.

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

The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board organises the Amarnath Yatra, which is divided into two routes: one through Pahalgam and the other through Baltal.

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

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

On Monday, July 15, a brief exchange of fire occurred between security forces and terrorists late at night in the Bhatta area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district. Four soldiers lost their lives in the encounter that broke out in the Desa Forest area.

Another encounter between security forces and terrorists took place in the Kastigarh area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district, police said on Thursday.

The Jammu and Kashmir police and the army have been working together to search for terrorists in those areas.

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