IrfanYattoo/ Umar Raina
The annual AmarnathYatra, a significant pilgrimage, commenced on Saturday with the first batch of pilgrims embarking on their journey from the Baltal base camp in Ganderbal to the revered Amarnath Cave.
In a press conference held at the Pahalgam base camp, the Indian Army revealed comprehensive security arrangements to ensure a smooth and peaceful pilgrimage.
Addressing the media, Commander 1 sector RR AmandeepMalhi stated that stringent security measures have been put in place to ensure the safety and comfort of the pilgrims. Cutting-edge technology such as quadcopters and night vision equipment is being utilized for round-the-clock surveillance of the holy cave shrine. The Border Road Organisation has upgraded the 32-kilometer route from Chandanwari to Holy Wave, using state-of-the-art equipment and skilled laborers to efficiently clear snow and open the path within a remarkably short span of time.
Commander 1 sector RR AmandeepMalhi further emphasized the robust security presence along the Yatra routes. In addition to the army, Central forces, and police, security forces have dominated both inner roads and higher reaches. The officer assured that all security arrangements are in place from the Banihal tunnel to Chandanwadi.
To enhance safety measures, additional security facilities have been deployed with a special focus on rapid and effective response during natural calamities. Quadcopters and night vision devices are being utilized for continuous surveillance on both Yatra routes. The soldiers have been instructed to minimize inconvenience to locals throughout the Yatra period. Furthermore, specialized mountain and avalanche rescue teams have been dispatched to ensure preparedness for any unforeseen circumstances. Joint drills with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), NDRF, and SRDF have been conducted to ensure prompt response in case of natural calamities.
In another briefing at the NilgrathSonamarg, Brigadier Atul Rajput, Commander 3 Sector RR, emphasized the Army’s long-standing commitment to ensuring the safety and security of AmarnathYatra pilgrims. Brig. Atul highlighted the collaborative efforts with all stakeholders, including the Jammu and Kashmir Police, BSF, CRPF, ITBP, SSB, and district administrations, to establish a robust and dynamic security grid for the ShriAmarnathjiYatra.
Considering the lessons learned from last year’s cloudburst incident near the holy cave, Brig. Atul mentioned the execution of earth moving operations by engineers to mitigate such risks. Security personnel have been deployed on both sides of the mountain, while special forces closely monitor the Yatra route from strategic locations. Snipers, anti-drone systems, bomb disposal units, and dog squads have been deployed to ensure the safety and security of the pilgrims.
To accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims, the Army has expanded several Yatri camps, providing additional tentage facilities. Multiple helipads have been made available to address medical emergencies and other airlift requirements. Joint exercises and mock drills have been conducted to ensure seamless and successful rescue operations when needed. Rescue teams and earth movers have been stationed at the Holy Cave and various locations along the route to promptly respond to emergencies. Modern equipment has been procured to effectively handle contingencies.
Brig. Atul stressed the importance of engaging with the local community and showcasing the economic and tourism-related benefits of the Yatra. This pilgrimage serves as an opportunity to exhibit the rich local culture and tradition of Kashmir to visitors from outside the region.
Brig. Atul extended his wishes for a safe, secure, and spiritually fulfilling Yatra to all devotees, assuring them of the Indian Army’s commitment to their well-being until the last Yatri completes their sacred visit to ShriAmarnath.
In a ceremonial gesture, the Amarnath cave shrine witnessed an ‘Aarti’ performed at an altitude of 14,000 feet, symbolizing the official commencement of the Yatra. Chanting the spiritual hymn ‘BhamBham Bole,’ hundreds of pilgrims departed from the base camps in Pahalgam and Sonamarg, embarking on their journey towards the shrine. Presently, approximately 3,488 pilgrims have gathered in the Valley base camps, ready to commence their ‘darshan,’ according to officials.
