Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD)In a significant spiritual turnout, more than one lakh pilgrims have performed darshan at the holy Amarnath cave shrine in just six days since the annual pilgrimage began on July 3. The Yatra is proceeding smoothly along both the Baltal route in Ganderbal and the Chandanwari route in Pahalgam, aided by favourable weather and strong administrative coordination.
On Tuesday, around 12,000 yatris set off from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu, marking one of the highest single-day departures this season.
Officials from the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) and civil administration have credited the seamless Yatra to enhanced infrastructure, multi-tier security, and real-time tracking measures like RFID tagging and e-KYC registration.
“The turnout this year is overwhelming, yet the flow has been managed efficiently. Round-the-clock monitoring and on-ground support teams have ensured zero disruption so far,” a senior SASB official said.
The administration has set up over 125 langars, 5,600 toilets, and 7,000 sanitation workers along the routes. Pilgrims have access to well-marked trekking paths, emergency medical aid, and weather monitoring systems.
Pilgrims Praise the Arrangements
Several yatris praised the efforts of the government, security forces, and volunteers.
“This is my fourth Yatra, and I must say, the facilities this time are far superior — be it food, shelter or medical support,” said Sunita Verma, a pilgrim from Rajasthan, speaking at the Baltal base camp.
“The Army and police are doing an excellent job. Their presence makes us feel safe every step of the way,” remarked Rakesh Mehta, a yatri from Delhi.
“Even at high altitudes, help is just minutes away. Langars are well-stocked, and washrooms are clean — a big change from a few years ago,” said Meenakshi, a first-time pilgrim from Uttar Pradesh.
Smooth Weather, Smooth Journey
Favourable weather conditions since July 3 have allowed uninterrupted movement of yatris, both on foot and via helicopter. The India Meteorological Department has forecast generally clear skies for the next 48 hours, further encouraging the surge in pilgrim turnout.
The 43-day Yatra will conclude on August 9, the day of Raksha Bandhan(DD)
