Over 12,300 Pilgrims Visit Amarnath Shrine on Day One; Tight Security Ensures Smooth Yatra
Over 12,300 devotees had darshan at the sacred Amarnath shrine on Thursday, marking a successful start to the annual Yatra. On Friday, another batch of 6,411 pilgrims departed from Jammu in two secured convoys comprising 291 vehicles, heading towards Baltal (2,789) and Pahalgam (3,622) base camps.
Despite recent threats, the pilgrims’ enthusiasm remained high, with chants of “Bum Bum Bhole” and “Har Har Mahadev” echoing along the route. This year’s pilgrimage, which began on July 3 and concludes on August 9, is under unprecedented security following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. Over 180 additional companies of CAPFs have been deployed, alongside the Indian Army and local police.
All transit camps and the entire route are under multi-tier surveillance. In a touching gesture, local Kashmiris welcomed pilgrims with garlands at Qazigund, symbolizing peace and unity.
The 38-day Yatra can be undertaken via the 46-km Pahalgam route or the 14-km Baltal route. The cave shrine at 3,888 metres houses a naturally formed ice lingam, revered as Lord Shiva’s manifestation.
