Amarnath Yatra 2023: A Safe and Secure Pilgrimage

Ensuring Safety and Security for All Pilgrims

Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, has promised full security for the Amarnath Yatra. This comes after a drop in registrations following a recent terror attack. The yatra starts on July 3. Sinha urged devotees to join in large numbers.

Fewer Registrations This Year

At a press meeting, Sinha noted a 10.19% drop in pilgrim registrations compared to last year. He linked this drop to the recent Pahalgam attack. Before the attack, registrations were good, with around 2.36 lakh pilgrims signing up. The yatra ends on August 9.

Re-verification for Pilgrims

The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) started a re-verification program for pilgrims who registered before the April 22 Pahalgam attack. So far, 85,000 pilgrims have confirmed their registration again. Sinha hopes more will do so in the coming days.

Better Security Measures

Sinha shared a detailed security plan to ensure devotees’ safety. He also talked about improved infrastructure along the routes for a smooth and safe pilgrimage.

• Multiple security layers are in place.
• More Army, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and J&K Police are deployed.
• Command and control centers have been set up.
• Special attention is given to vulnerable spots.

Pilgrims are advised to travel in designated convoys for safety. Even those using their own vehicles should join convoys.

New Initiatives for Pilgrims

Several new initiatives have been introduced:

• An insurance scheme covering pilgrims, ponywallas, and other service providers.
• Helicopter service is suspended this year due to recent accidents and security concerns.
• Both yatra routes have been widened to around 12ft along most stretches.
• Safer yatra tracks with stronger safety handrails along the Baltal track and over 20 km on vulnerable stretches on the Pahalgam track.
• Power connectivity at tracks and camps till the holy cave and from there to Panjtarni.

Improved Accommodation and Facilities

Better accommodation for pilgrims is available at SASB’s Yatri Niwas complexes:

• Baltal: 800 pilgrims
• Nunwan: 900 pilgrims
• Pantha Chowk: 1000 pilgrims

Digital pre-paid systems for hiring services like pony, pithu, and palki are available for pilgrims.

At the holy cave, the wooden darshan platform has been replaced with a stainless steel platform with wood flooring. Pilgrims can now have darshans in four rows at the same time. This makes darshans better and hassle-free.

Working with the Elected Government

Sinha said he would meet with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. They will discuss how the elected government can help with the yatra’s administration.

Tradition of Warm Welcome

Sinha highlighted that the people of Kashmir have always welcomed Amarnath yatris with warmth and great hospitality. He stressed the importance of continuing this tradition. This ensures the yatra is safe, peaceful, and successful for all.