This morning, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu. Before the flag-off, Mr. Sinha offered prayers at the temple, marking the commencement of the annual pilgrimage to the Shri Amarnath Cave Shrine in Kashmir Valley, which will officially begin tomorrow from the Pahalgam and Baltal tracks.
Enhanced Arrangements and Security Measures
Speaking to the media after the flag-off, Lieutenant Governor Sinha highlighted the extensive preparations made over the past three to four years for the pilgrimage. He assured that the Jammu and Kashmir administration has made all necessary arrangements for this year’s Yatra, including heightened security measures. “This time also, Jammu and Kashmir administration has made all the necessary arrangements and security has been heightened,” he said.
Pilgrim Influx and Security Convoy
Ahead of the Yatra, thousands of pilgrims have already arrived in Jammu. The first batch will travel in a high-security convoy to the Pahalgam and Baltal base camps, where they will commence their pilgrimage. To bolster security and manage traffic, CCTV cameras have been installed along the National Highways.
Preparatory Review and Facility Enhancements
Yesterday, Lieutenant Governor Sinha conducted a high-level meeting at Pahalgam in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district to review the preparations for the pilgrimage. The discussion focused on the deployment of police and security personnel, as well as doctors and other essential staff along the Yatra routes. The Governor was briefed on significant improvements in facilities to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage. He also inspected the facilities at the Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam.
DGP’s Inspection and Directives
Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police RR Swain also conducted visits to the base camps at Baltal in Kashmir and Bhagwati Nagar in Jammu. Additionally, he assessed the arrangements at Chanderkot in Ramban. DGP Swain instructed officials to strictly adhere to the planned arrangements and maintain heightened vigilance throughout the pilgrimage.
The comprehensive preparations and robust security measures underscore the administration’s commitment to ensuring a safe and seamless pilgrimage for all devotees undertaking the sacred Amarnath Yatra.
