Pilgrims Begin Amarnath Yatra Amid Tight Security in Jammu and Kashmir

A new group of pilgrims has started their journey to the Amarnath shrine in Jammu and Kashmir under tight security. The enthusiastic pilgrims set out from the Panthachowk Srinagar base camp towards the Baltal and Pahalgam Yatra base camps.

Routes and Organization

The Amarnath Yatra is organized by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board and has two routes: one through Pahalgam and the other through Baltal. Baltal serves as the camping ground for pilgrims in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Security Measures

This year’s pilgrimage is taking place amid a significant increase in terror attacks in the region, including attacks in Kathua, Doda, and Udhampur. Unprecedented security measures, including electronic surveillance and access control, have been put in place to ensure the safety of the pilgrims.

Traffic Advisory

To ensure safe and efficient movement, the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police issued an advisory on July 6 for National Highway 44, with cut-off timings and clear instructions for various convoys and non-convoy movements.

Duration

The Amarnath Yatra started on June 29 and will end on August 19, lasting 52 days. Devotees of Lord Shiva undertake this annual pilgrimage to the holy cave located in the Kashmir Himalayas.