J&K: Fresh batch of pilgrims leaves for Amarnath shrine

Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], July 13 (ANI): A fresh batch of pilgrims left for their journey to the Amarnath shrine under heightened security measures on Saturday morning.

The pilgrims set out for the sacred location amid tight security from Panthachowk Srinagar base camp towards Baltal and Pahalgam yatra base camps, where they would seek blessings and connect with their faith at the holy shrine.

The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board organises the Amarnath Yatra, which is divided into two routes: one that goes through Pahalgam and the other that goes 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 July 8, five soldiers lost their lives and many were injured in an ambush by terrorists in Kathua district.

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.

On Wednesday, the Inspector General of Police of Kashmir, VK Birdi, convened a crucial coordination and security meeting at Nunwan Base Camp to work in close coordination to ensure a safe and secure Amarnath Yatra.

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.