Amarnath Yatra Pilgrims Depart from Srinagar Amid Tight Security

Another group of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims has started their journey from the Panthachowk Srinagar base camp under heightened security measures. The pilgrims are traveling along the Baltal and Pahalgam routes.

The annual pilgrimage, organized by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, lasts for 45 days and is a significant concern for the government due to recent terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. Devotees of Lord Shiva undertake this challenging journey to the holy cave shrine in the Kashmir Himalayas during July and August.

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has directed the Punjab Police to ensure a smooth and safe passage for the devotees. Special Director General of Police (Special DGP) Law and Order Arpit Shukla chaired a high-level meeting in Pathankot to review the security arrangements. The meeting included representatives from the Police, Army, Civil Administration, and other security agencies.

Special DGP Arpit Shukla discussed securing the International Border and ensuring the safety of the pilgrims. He announced that the Punjab Police has increased security with the deployment of 550 personnel, SOG, sniper detachments, bomb disposal units, and other commando units. A high alert has been issued, and an eight-second line of defense nakas has been established by the Punjab Police.