The annual Amarnath Yatra officially commenced as the first batch of pilgrims departed from Jammu for Srinagar under elaborate security arrangements. The convoy, flagged off in the early hours by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, is scheduled to reach Srinagar before proceeding towards the twin base camps at Baltal and Pahalgam.

The departure of the pilgrims was marked by chants of “Bam Bam Bhole”, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere as devotees from across the country embarked on one of Hinduism’s most revered pilgrimages.

First-Time Pilgrims Show Great Enthusiasm

A large number of pilgrims undertaking the Amarnath Yatra for the first time expressed immense excitement and devotion. Many said they had waited an entire year for the opportunity to seek the blessings of Baba Barfani at the holy ice Shivling inside the Amarnath cave shrine.

Several devotees from Rajasthan, who were part of the first convoy, said they had registered as soon as the pilgrimage registration opened to ensure they could have darshan on the opening day. Despite security concerns and the challenging terrain, the pilgrims expressed complete faith in Lord Shiva and confidence in the security forces deployed for the yatra.

Massive Security Cover Across the Route

Authorities have put in place one of the largest security arrangements for this year’s pilgrimage. More than 70,000 security personnel, including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Jammu and Kashmir Police, Border Security Force (BSF), the Indian Army, and COBRA commandos, have been deployed to ensure the safety of pilgrims.

Security personnel are escorting the convoy along the nearly 300-kilometre Jammu–Srinagar National Highway, which has been placed under strict surveillance. Civilian movement on certain stretches of the highway has been regulated while the convoy passes to ensure safe transit.

Pilgrims to Begin Trek from Baltal and Pahalgam

After reaching the base camps at Baltal and Pahalgam, the pilgrims will begin their trek to the sacred Amarnath cave shrine, where they are expected to have darshan of the naturally formed ice Shivling.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has implemented comprehensive security and logistical measures, including surveillance, medical facilities, and emergency response systems, to ensure the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.

BJP Expects Record Pilgrim Turnout

BJP leader Sunil Sharma expressed confidence that this year’s Amarnath Yatra would witness a record number of devotees. He said the enthusiasm seen among pilgrims reflects their unwavering faith and trust in the security arrangements.

According to Sharma, devotees have shown remarkable confidence despite the challenges posed by weather, difficult terrain, and security concerns. He described the Amarnath Yatra as a historic pilgrimage and an integral part of Jammu and Kashmir’s spiritual identity, expressing hope that this year’s pilgrimage would surpass all previous attendance records.

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