Kulgam: Kashmir on Thursday extended a warm welcome to the first batch of pilgrims undertaking the annual Amarnath Yatra as thousands of devotees entered the Valley amid elaborate security arrangements and enthusiastic greetings from officials and local residents.
The first batch of around 4,822 pilgrims, comprising men, women, children, sadhus and sadhvis, was flagged off in the early hours by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu.
After the convoy entered Kashmir through the Navyug Tunnel in Qazigund, Kulgam district, it was received by senior officials of the security forces, civil administration, and local residents, who welcomed the yatris with garlands, flower bouquets, and showers of flower petals.
Senior officials present to receive the pilgrims included the Inspector General of CRPF, DIG South Kashmir Range Javid Iqbal Matoo, SSP Kulgam Anayat Ali Choudhary and officers of the civil administration. The warm reception reflected the Valley’s hospitality and the extensive arrangements made for the smooth conduct of the annual pilgrimage.
Following the welcome ceremony, the convoys proceeded towards the twin base camps at Baltal in Ganderbal district and Nunwan-Pahalgam in Anantnag district, from where pilgrims will begin their onward journey to the holy Amarnath Cave Shrine on Friday.
The 57-day Amarnath Yatra will officially commence on July 3 and conclude on August 28. Pilgrims can undertake the pilgrimage through the traditional 48-kilometre Nunwan-Pahalgam route, known for its gradual ascent, or the 14-kilometre Baltal route, which is shorter but considerably steeper.
Authorities have made extensive arrangements, including multi-layered security, medical facilities, traffic management, and accommodation, to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of one of the country’s largest annual religious pilgrimages.
Leave a Reply