Will Devotees Join the Amarnath Yatra in Droves?

Srinagar, June 26 (NationPress) The Lieutenant Governor (L-G) of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, made a heartfelt appeal on Thursday for devotees to come together in substantial numbers for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, which is set to commence on July 3.

During a media briefing held at Raj Bhawan, L-G Sinha, who also serves as the Chairman of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, urged the public to participate in the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra.

The L-G assured attendees that a robust security framework has been put into place, with enhanced multi-layered security measures. The Army, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and Jammu and Kashmir Police have all collaborated to ensure the pilgrimage is conducted safely.

Comprehensive arrangements have been established for pilgrims visiting the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, ensuring a smooth experience at the revered cave.

The L-G expressed that an atmosphere of spiritual enthusiasm has enveloped the base camps for the Yatra. The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB) has worked diligently to create essential facilities, including provisions for movement, accommodation, electricity, water, sanitation, communication, and health services for pilgrims.

He highlighted the notable advancements made by SASB over the past two years in enhancing facilities for pilgrims, including the widening of previously narrow and steep Yatra tracks to around 12 feet in most areas.

The Kalimata stretch, which was once steep and narrow, has been transformed into a gentler slope measuring nearly 12 feet wide, he noted.

“Safer Yatra tracks have been equipped with stronger safety handrails along the entire Baltal track and over 20 km of vulnerable sections on the Pahalgam track. Illuminated pathways and Yatra camps have been constructed, and grid power connectivity has been established from the Baltal track to the holy cave and from the cave to Panjtarni,” the L-G stated.

The grid connectivity is also being initiated on the remaining parts of the Pahalgam track. Enhanced accommodation facilities have been arranged at SASB's Yatri Niwas locations at Baltal (800 beds), Nunwan (900 beds), and Pantha Chowk (1000 beds), he added.

A digital prepaid system for hiring various services, such as pony rides, pithus, and palkis, will be available for pilgrims, the L-G mentioned.

At the holy cave, the traditional wooden darshan platform has been replaced with a stainless steel platform designed for optimal alignment and height, featuring wooden flooring and an additional row for better access.

“Now, pilgrims will be able to have darshans simultaneously in four rows, facilitating a smoother experience. A canopy has also been installed over the stairs at the Holy Cave to protect yatris from rain, snowfall, and the scorching sun. This year, the clinical bed capacity at healthcare facilities in Panjtarni and upper camps has been significantly expanded,” he added.

Integrated command and control centers have been established, and the presence of Jammu and Kashmir Police and CAPFs has been increased to ensure safety.

Vulnerable areas have been identified, and dedicated measures are being implemented for the protection of pilgrims.

“Functional 100-bedded hospitals are available at both primary routes. The Yatri Niwas facilities at Baltal and Pahalgam are being developed for the convenience of devotees. A strong emphasis has been placed on cleanliness and sustainability during the yatra,” he stated.

“Prasad counters have been set up at the holy cave, and additional services such as foot-over-bridges at Nunwan base camp, cloak rooms, e-rickshaws, and other facilities have been introduced for both pilgrims and service providers,” he concluded.

The L-G also highlighted the increased security measures at tourist locations.

He commended the local media and residents of Jammu and Kashmir for their contributions to the successful execution of the yatra.

Lastly, he encouraged pilgrims to travel in designated convoys.