Pilgrims Embark on Amarnath Yatra Amid Heightened Security Despite Terror Threats

A new group of pilgrims departed from the Pantha Chowk Base Camp to begin their Amarnath Yatra amid heightened security. The journey continues despite recent terror attacks in the region. Devotees will travel to Baltal and Pahalgam to complete their pilgrimage to the sacred cave in the Kashmir Himalayas.

On Friday morning, a new group of pilgrims departed from the Pantha Chowk Base Camp to embark on their journey for the Amarnath Yatra amid heightened security. The pilgrims will head towards the base camps of the Baltal and Pahalgam Yatras, seeking blessings and connecting with their faith.

Organised by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, the Amarnath Yatra is divided into two routes: one through Pahalgam and the other through Baltal, which serves as the camping ground in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. Most pilgrims have expressed satisfaction with the services provided during their journey.

One first-time pilgrim shared, 'I am very happy to be part of the yatra. I had been planning it for a long time and this year I am able to do the yatra. The services are very good and I am happy to be here at the moment.'

This year's yatra takes place amid a significant increase in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. On Monday, July 15, a brief exchange of fire occurred between security forces and terrorists in the Bhatta area of Doda district, resulting in the loss of four soldiers in the Desa Forest area. Another encounter took place in the Kastigarh area of Doda district on Thursday.

Jammu and Kashmir police and the army are collaboratively working to search for terrorists in those areas. The yatra began on June 29 and will conclude on August 19, spanning 52 days. Devotees undertake this challenging annual pilgrimage to the sacred cave located in the Kashmir Himalayas.

(With inputs from agencies.)