Elaborate security, accommodation arrangements in place for Amarnath Yatra: J&K Administration
Jammu, June 30 (KINS): The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Tuesday said all necessary arrangements, including enhanced security and accommodation for nearly 55,000 pilgrims, have been put in place for the annual Amarnath Ji Yatra, with the first batch of devotees set to leave the Bhagwati Nagar base camp on July 2.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also the Chairman of the Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB), will flag off the first convoy at 4 am. The 57-day pilgrimage will begin on July 3 via the traditional Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag and the shorter Baltal route in Ganderbal.
Addressing a press conference, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar said comprehensive arrangements have been made for accommodation, food, sanitation, healthcare, transport and security to ensure a smooth pilgrimage.
Inspector General of Police (Jammu Zone) Bhim Sen Tuti said security has been further strengthened this year. He said pilgrims must travel only via the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), adding that movement on alternative routes such as the Mughal Road and Dhar Road will not be permitted for Yatra traffic.
He said pilgrims arriving at Lakhanpur between 6 am and 8 am will be escorted to Jammu, while those reaching later will have to wait due to security protocols. Mini-convoys will also operate between Udhampur and Banihal under a fixed schedule.
The administration has established accommodation centres from Lakhanpur to Banihal, along with langars, temporary shelters and strengthened sanitation and medical facilities. Nearly 2,100 toilets have been installed along the Yatra route.(KINS)
