Jammu: Ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra set to commence on July 1, a significant number of pilgrims have arrived at the Yatri Niwas Base Camp in Jammu. The first batch of enthusiastic pilgrims was observed forming long queues outside the base camp, eagerly anticipating the start of their journey. The base camp is under tight security to ensure the safety of the pilgrims.
The Amarnath Yatra, a 62-day pilgrimage, holds immense religious significance for Hindus who visit the Amarnath Cave, believed to be the dwelling place of Lord Shiva. The pilgrimage begins on July 1 and concludes on August 31. Pilgrims will embark on their solemn trek from the ancient paths of Nunwan in Pahalgam and Baltal in the Ganderbal district of Kashmir.
In preparation for the Yatra, several langar committees have started their arrangements three days in advance to cater to the needs of pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir. These committees have set up sheds, organised cooking resources, and gathered other necessary materials along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in Udhampur district. A total of 22 langars have been established at various points along the highway (NHW-44) to provide assistance to the pilgrims.
In an official statement, the Jammu and Kashmir police reported that Director General of Police Dilbag Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Raj Kumar Goyal, and Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor Mandeep Kumar Bhandari conducted an extensive tour of the pilgrimage routes. The officials emphasised the need for coordination among security forces and stakeholders to ensure a smooth and secure Yatra. They also highlighted the identification of sensitive areas that may require additional arrangements for the pilgrims.
The officers in charge were instructed to implement the devised plans on the ground to ensure the safety and security of the pilgrims while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and providing necessary assistance and cooperation, as stated in the official statement. Prior to the start of the Yatra, the Anantnag district administration in Jammu and Kashmir has made all the necessary arrangements, including medical care, sanitation, and other facilities, with staff members stationed at various locations.
Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Syeed Fakhrudin Hamid, expressed confidence in the preparations, stating that all arrangements, including RFID, sanitization, and logging, have been meticulously carried out. He emphasised that the Yatra not only promotes spiritual harmony but also fosters communal harmony, as highlighted by officials involved in the event.
The registration process for the Amarnath Yatra began on April 17, 2023. The pilgrimage schedule is traditionally planned to align with the auspicious day of Skandshasthi, according to the Hindu calendar, and concludes on Shravan Purnima, also known as Raksha Bandhan. The management of the Holy Cave Shrine is entrusted to the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), established by the Jammu and Kashmir State Legislature in 2000, with the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir serving as its ex-officio Chairman. The SASB has implemented a systematic registration procedure for the Amarnath Yatra 2023 to ensure a well-organised and smooth pilgrimage experience.
Over three lakh pilgrims have registered for the 62-day Amarnath Yatra, the longest in history, according to the shrine board in Srinagar on Wednesday (June 28). So far, registrations have increased by 10% over last year.
In an effort to facilitate the registration of pilgrims travelling together, whether they are relatives, friends, or neighbours, the board introduced “Group Registration” last year. This initiative allows groups to register collectively, streamlining the process for those undertaking the pilgrimage as a cohesive unit. The SASB strives to create a seamless and efficient journey for all participants of the Amarnath Yatra.
Recently, the Union Health Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya, conducted a comprehensive review of the health services available for the Amarnath Yatra. The purpose of the review was to ensure that all devotees participating in the pilgrimage received sufficient and appropriate medical care.
During the review, Mandaviya instructed officials to collaborate closely with the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to ensure that the pilgrims are provided with the necessary health facilities and medical services. The directive aimed to guarantee the well-being and safety of the yatris throughout their journey.
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