Amarnath Pilgrims Commence Journey Amid Heightened Security Measures

A new group of Amarnath pilgrims departed from Srinagar to Baltal Yatra camp, praising the arrangements and security amid rising terror threats in Jammu and Kashmir. The Yatra, overseen by Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, has been fortified with increased safety measures due to recent terrorist activities.

Another batch of Amarnath pilgrims left the Pantha Chowk base camp in Srinagar for the Baltal Yatra base camp in Ganderbal on Thursday morning. Speaking to ANI, the pilgrims praised the arrangements and expressed hopes for favorable weather to complete their sacred journey.

Sita Devi, a pilgrim from Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh, shared her positive experiences. 'We felt very good. We had all the amenities, from bathing to food, and it was a pleasant experience. I would recommend everyone to visit here every year,' she said.

Another pilgrim similarly recommended the visit for other devotees. 'The facilities here are excellent, and the officers are very cooperative. We are very happy to be here,' the pilgrim noted.

In light of recent terrorist activities in the Poonch and Rajouri areas, the army has ramped up security for pilgrims. Many said they had no fear and praised the security arrangements. On Sunday, another group of pilgrims departed from Srinagar towards Pahalgam for the Amarnath Yatra.

The Yatra, organized by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, follows two routes: one through Pahalgam and the other via Baltal in Ganderbal district. The Yatra, beginning on June 29 from both base camps, is set to conclude on August 19.

This year's pilgrimage occurs amid a significant uptick in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. On July 24, Inspector General of Police Kashmir VK Birdi held a joint security review meeting at the Nunwan Base Camp in Pahalgam. The IGP instructed all security agencies to work in close coordination to ensure the pilgrims' safety.

The meeting also focused on counter-terrorism strategies and maintaining law and order, underscoring the commitment of all stakeholders to ensure the security of the Yatra pilgrims.

(With inputs from agencies.)