Why is the Amarnath Yatra Suspended for Two Days?
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Synopsis
The Amarnath Yatra has been halted for the second consecutive day, leaving many pilgrims unable to proceed from Jammu to the Valley. With over 4 lakh Yatris already participating, this year’s pilgrimage is marked by heightened security and significant traditions as the holy mace prepares for its final journey.
Key Takeaways
- Amarnath Yatra suspended for two days due to maintenance.
- Over 4 lakh Yatris have participated so far.
- Final journey of the Chhari Mubarak begins on August 4.
- Enhanced security arrangements in place for safety.
- Yatris can choose between Pahalgam and Baltal routes.
Srinagar, Aug 1 (NationPress) The Amarnath Yatra has been halted for the second consecutive day from Jammu to the Valley as of Friday, with only Yatris from the Baltal base camp being permitted to proceed towards the sacred cave shrine. The total number of Yatris who participated in the Yatra until Thursday has surpassed 4 lakh.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also serves as the chairman of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), remarked on Thursday, "With the blessings of Baba Amarnath, the Holy Yatra has crossed the remarkable milestone of 4 Lakh pilgrims." He expressed his gratitude to all those who have contributed to making the holy pilgrimage a divine experience.
Officials from SASB announced that no Yatri movements from Jammu to the Valley would take place on Friday, and no Yatris would be allowed to head towards the cave shrine from the Pahalgam base camp due to ongoing track maintenance.
Yatris will only be permitted to advance towards the cave shrine from the Baltal base camp.
The holy mace, the ‘Chhari Mubarak’, is traditionally located inside the Amareshwar Temple at the Dashnami Akhara Building in Budshah Chowk, Srinagar.
The journey of the Chhari Mubarak dictates the significant milestones of the Amarnath Yatra. It will embark on its final journey towards the cave shrine from the Amareshwar temple on August 4, arriving at its sacred destination on August 9, which officially concludes the Yatra.
During this journey, traditional Puja will be conducted along the way at Pampore, Bijbehara, Mattan, and Pahalgam before the Chhari Mubarak reaches its final resting place, the holy cave shrine.
This year's Amarnath Yatra has extensive multi-tier security measures in place, prompted by the tragic attack on April 22, where 26 people were killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam.
The Yatra commenced on July 3 and will conclude after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.
Yatris can reach the cave shrine, situated at an altitude of 3888 metres in the Kashmir Himalayas, via the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route.
Those opting for the Pahalgam route trek through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni, covering a 46 km distance on foot, often taking four days to reach the cave shrine. Conversely, the Baltal route is a shorter 14 km trek, allowing pilgrims to have darshan and return to the base camp the same day.
This year, helicopter services for Yatris are unavailable due to security concerns.
The cave shrine features an ice stalagmite structure that varies with the lunar phases, believed by devotees to symbolize the mythical powers of Lord Shiva.
Point of View
The Amarnath Yatra is not just a pilgrimage but a significant event that showcases the resilience and devotion of the Indian populace. The suspension of Yatri movements highlights the importance of safety and security during such large-scale religious events. The commitment of authorities to maintain this balance is commendable, ensuring that the sacred journey continues smoothly amidst challenges.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Amarnath Yatra suspended?
The Amarnath Yatra is suspended due to ongoing track maintenance and security concerns, ensuring the safety of all Yatris.
How many Yatris have participated so far?
Over 4 lakh Yatris have participated in the Amarnath Yatra as of Thursday.
What routes can Yatris take to reach the cave shrine?
Yatris can take either the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route to reach the cave shrine.
When does the Amarnath Yatra conclude?
The Amarnath Yatra will conclude on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.
Are helicopter services available for Yatris this year?
No, helicopter services are unavailable this year due to security reasons.
