Ganderbal, June 18:
With the annual Shri Amarnathji Yatra set to begin on July 3, the Baltal base camp in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district is witnessing a flurry of activity, as both authorities and local stakeholders gear up to welcome thousands of pilgrims.
Preparations are underway on multiple fronts. Government agencies are working round the clock to ensure essential services — including healthcare, drinking water, ration supplies, firewood, sanitation, and emergency response — are fully operational before the pilgrimage begins. In tandem, elaborate security arrangements are being finalized to ensure the yatra proceeds safely and smoothly.
Senior officials have been making regular visits to Baltal to oversee the progress of arrangements. A series of high-level meetings have also been held to review infrastructure readiness, logistical support, and safety measures.
On the ground, locals closely associated with the yatra have begun erecting tents and setting up basic amenities at Baltal and along the route to the holy cave. Many have received formal permissions to install their facilities near the yatra path, including at locations close to the sacred cave itself.
Local service providers — including tent owners, ponywalas, palkiwalas, and porters — expressed their enthusiasm as the pilgrimage nears.
“The yatra sustains our livelihoods,” said one tent operator. “We are prepared to support the administration in every possible way. For us, the pilgrims are guests of God, and their safety and comfort are our top priority.”
Adding to the spiritual fervour, langar committees have also started arriving to set up community kitchens along the Baltal route. These langars will serve free food, refreshments, and offer basic medical aid to yatris throughout the duration of the pilgrimage.
As it does each year, Baltal is transforming into a vibrant tented township, with colourful shelters, busy kitchens, and a devotional atmosphere. The energy is palpable as Kashmir braces to host one of India’s most revered religious journeys.
With close coordination between the administration and local communities, all signs point toward a safe, organised, and spiritually uplifting Amarnath Yatra 2025.
