The annual Shri Amarnath Yatra commenced on Friday from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes, with thousands of pilgrims setting off for the Holy Cave amid high spirits and elaborate security arrangements.
The first batch of nearly 5,000 pilgrims had reached Kashmir Valley on Thursday after being flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha from Jammu.
At Nunwan Base Camp, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Bilal Bhat, and SSP Anantnag Amod Nagpure flagged off the pilgrims on the Pahalgam axis, wishing them a safe and successful pilgrimage.
A light drizzle in Baltal Ganderbal added to the serene atmosphere as devotees continued their onwards journey to the cave shrine.
Authorities have rolled out the biggest annual security exercise in Jammu and Kashmir for this year’s pilgrimage.
A multi-layered security grid, no-fly zones along both routes, watchtowers, intensified surveillance and real-time monitoring of pilgrim convoys have been put in place to ensure a safe yatra.
Police have issued tamper-proof QR code-based identity cards to all registered service providers, including pony riders, enabling instant verification of their credentials and preventing militants from posing as support staff.
In addition, RFID tags have been issued for pilgrims, vehicles and service providers to facilitate real-time tracking, while an extensive network of CCTV cameras is monitoring movement across both pilgrimage routes.
Officials said all arrangements have been made to ensure the pilgrimage proceeds smoothly and securely.
Pilgrims have been advised to strictly adhere to the instructions issued by security personnel and Yatra authorities, to travel only in authorised convoys, to carry valid identification documents, to avoid sharing unverified information or rumours, and to immediately report any suspicious activity, unattended object, or emergency to the nearest police personnel or through the emergency helpline.
