JAMMU: With tight security in place, a fresh and diverse group of over 6,500 pilgrims embarked on their journey to the revered Amarnath shrine in the picturesque South Kashmir Himalayas on July 20.
The convoy heading towards Pahalgam consisted of 3,746 pilgrims and 165 vehicles, while another group of 2,777 pilgrims set forth for the Baltal base camp in a convoy of 97 vehicles.
Due to the temporary closure of the Jammu-Srinagar national highway, a batch of 4,900 pilgrims sought shelter at Chanderkot in Ramban district. However, they resumed their pilgrimage to Amarnath early the following morning, determined to reach their destination.
To ensure the safety and well-being of the pilgrims, the National Disaster Response Force is proactively identifying suitable locations for pilgrim camps. These measures are taken to prevent any unfortunate incidents like last year's flash flood, which resulted in the loss of 16 lives near the sacred shrine. An expert team specializing in remote sensing, satellite technology, hydrology, and disaster response is conducting aerial surveys as a precautionary step.
Commencing on July 1, the 62-day annual pilgrimage to the 3,888-meter-high cave shrine is conducted through twin tracks, Pahalgam in Anantnag district, and Baltal in Ganderbal district. The pilgrimage, known as the yatra, will continue until August 31, welcoming devotees from various walks of life to experience a profound spiritual journey.
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