First Batch of Amarnath Yatra Pilgrims Reaches Baltal Base Camp

The first group of pilgrims for the Shri Amarnath Yatra arrived at the Baltal base camp in Ganderbal, Jammu and Kashmir. One pilgrim expressed joy at being in the first batch, highlighting the helpfulness of local Kashmiris and security forces. Another pilgrim praised the arrangements made by local police, Kashmiris, and security forces.

Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, attended a meeting with civil society members to discuss arrangements for the Amarnath Yatra and Muharram. The first batch of pilgrims was welcomed by the Ramban district administration, including Deputy Commissioner Basheer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, DIG Shridhar Patil, and SSP Anuj Kumar. Lovleen from Dera Bassi, Punjab, was the first pilgrim to be welcomed in Ramban district.

A total of 4,351 pilgrims traveled in 264 vehicles under tight security. Nine langars were set up at Chanderkot by various religious organizations. Deputy Commissioner Chaudhary assured that arrangements for water, power, security, and sanitation were in place, with CCTV cameras installed for security. DIG Shridhar Patil mentioned the use of sophisticated gadgets and heavy security deployment along NH44.

Deputy Commissioner Udhampur, Saloni Rai, added that CCTV cameras were installed along the National Highway for continuous monitoring. The 52-day-long Amarnath Yatra, which involves a challenging trek to the Amarnath cave shrine, will conclude on August 19. The administration is ensuring the safety and well-being of the pilgrims amidst heightened security concerns.