Amarnath Yatra 2023: Pilgrims Depart Amid Tight Security

On Friday, pilgrims left Pantha Chowk Base Camp for Amarnath Yatra, setting out for Baltal and Pahalgam camps. The journey, organized by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, occurs amid heightened security due to recent terror attacks. The pilgrimage commenced on June 29 and will conclude on August 19.

On Friday, a new group of pilgrims departed from the Pantha Chowk Base Camp to begin their trip in the Amarnath Yatra. Excited pilgrims set out for the sacred site under tight security, heading for the base camps of Baltal and Pahalgam, where they hope to connect with their faith and seek blessings.

The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board organizes the Amarnath Yatra, offering two routes: one through Pahalgam and another through Baltal in Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir. A devotee from Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, praised, 'The services are great. Thanks to the army, we can complete the yatra successfully without any issues. I prayed for everyone's happiness and peace, including our army brothers who ensure our safety.'

Another pilgrim shared, 'I have been doing the Amarnath Yatra for the past 11 years. This time, the services are excellent, with no issues for pilgrims. From medicine to food, every facility is provided.' This year's yatra occurs amid a significant rise in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.

On July 8, five soldiers lost their lives in a terrorist ambush in Kathua district. To ensure safe and efficient movement of pilgrims, the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police issued an advisory on July 6 for National Highway 44, with guidelines for convoy and non-convoy movements.

On Wednesday, Inspector General of Police of Kashmir, VK Birdi, held a crucial coordination and security meeting at Nunwan Base Camp to ensure a safe and secure yatra. Starting June 29 and ending August 19, the 52-day yatra sees Lord Shiva's devotees undertake the arduous annual pilgrimage to the holy cave in the Kashmir Himalayas.