Srinagar, Jun 26: Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, on Thursday said that all necessary preparations have been completed for the smooth and secure conduct of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025, which is set to begin from July 3.
Addressing a press conference at Raj Bhawan here, LG Sinha appealed to devotees across the country to participate in large numbers. He assured that a robust multi-layered security system is in place, with the Army, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and Jammu and Kashmir Police fully deployed to ensure the safety of all pilgrims.
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“All arrangements related to movement, accommodation, electricity, water, sanitation, healthcare, and communication have been made to provide a comfortable and spiritual experience to the devotees,” he said.
Key Arrangements Highlighted:
- Wider and Safer Yatra Tracks: Narrow and steep tracks on both Baltal and Pahalgam routes have been widened up to 12 feet, including improvements on the difficult Kalimata stretch. Handrails have been installed on vulnerable stretches.
- Improved Power and Lighting: Grid connectivity has been extended along the Baltal track till the holy cave and from the cave to Panjtarni. Work is in progress on the remaining Pahalgam route.
- Enhanced Accommodation: Pilgrim lodging has been expanded with 800 beds at Baltal, 900 at Nunwan, and 1000 at Pantha Chowk under SASB’s Yatri Niwas facilities.
- Digital Service System: Pilgrims can now hire services like pony, pithu, and palki through a digital prepaid system.
- Upgraded Darshan Platform: The wooden darshan platform at the holy cave has been replaced with a stainless-steel one with wood flooring, allowing four simultaneous darshan rows for smoother access.
- Canopy and Shelter Facilities: A canopy has been installed over the stairs at the holy cave to protect pilgrims from rain, snow, or heat.
- Expanded Medical Facilities: Clinical bed capacity at Panjtarni and upper camps has been significantly increased, and 100-bedded hospitals are functional on both axes.
- Integrated Monitoring: Command and Control Centres have been set up for real-time monitoring and rapid response, with increased deployment of security personnel at key locations.
- Sustainability and Cleanliness: Special emphasis has been laid on maintaining cleanliness and making the pilgrimage eco-friendly.
- Additional Facilities: Foot overbridges, cloakrooms, e-rickshaws, and prasad counters have also been introduced for the convenience of pilgrims and service providers.
LG Sinha also praised the local residents, media, and officials for their continued support in ensuring the successful conduct of the Yatra. He requested all pilgrims to strictly follow guidelines and travel only in designated convoys for their safety.
With the sacred journey to the holy Amarnath cave just days away, the administration remains committed to providing a safe, organized, and spiritually uplifting experience for all devotees.
