Amarnath Yatra Begins Amid Tight Security and Devotees’ Unwavering Faith

A new batch of pilgrims commenced their Amarnath Yatra from Pantha Chowk Base Camp under tight security. The journey sees devotees traveling to sacred sites via Baltal and Pahalgam, continuing despite increased terrorist activity in Jammu and Kashmir.

On Thursday morning, a fresh group of pilgrims set out from the Pantha Chowk Base Camp to embark on their Amarnath Yatra, amid heightened security measures.

The pilgrims are headed towards the base camps of Baltal and Pahalgam, intended for them to connect with their faith and seek blessings.

Organized by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, the Amarnath Yatra is divided into two routes: Pahalgam and Baltal. Baltal acts as the camping ground for pilgrims in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. Sheetal Diwakar, a devotee from Mumbai, expressed satisfaction with the arrangements, saying, 'With the blessings of Bholenath, we will be leaving for Baltal. The services are very good; we did not face any problems, and I would recommend everyone to seek the blessing from Baba Bholenath at least once in their life.'

Another devotee from Vadodara, Gujarat, praised the security and urged fellow adherents of Sanatan Dharma to undertake the yatra, especially given its spiritual significance.

This year's pilgrimage coincides with a marked rise in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.

Earlier this week, a brief exchange of fire occurred between security forces and terrorists in the Bhatta area of Doda district, resulting in the loss of four soldiers. Another encounter was reported in the Kastigarh area.

The Jammu and Kashmir police, along with the army, have been actively searching for terrorists in these areas. The yatra began on June 29 and will conclude on August 19, lasting 52 days. Devotees of Lord Shiva undertake this demanding annual pilgrimage to the holy cave in the Kashmir Himalayas.

(With inputs from agencies.)