Baltal, July 02: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the ShriAmarnathJiYatra Base camp at Baltal today to review the arrangements made for the sacred pilgrimage. During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor interacted with officers from the civil administration, J&K Police, Central Armed Police Forces, and all other stakeholders involved in ensuring the best arrangements for the devotees.
Lieutenant Governor emphasized the significance of the ShriAmarnathJiYatra, stating that it holds great relevance in our tradition and serves as a symbol of peace, harmony, and inclusive growth. He expressed his joy upon witnessing the enthusiasm of the pilgrims at Baltal as they prepared for the pilgrimage.
“The congregation of seekers and keepers of divine wisdom from across the country are here to celebrate one of the oldest spiritual traditions of India,” said the Lieutenant Governor. He further highlighted that the yatra is not only about sharing new ideas and reforms but also about the search for supreme truth and spiritual strength. Each step towards the holy cave represents eternal contentment, human bonding, and a source of inspiration for society as a whole.
The Lieutenant Governor also emphasized the unity in diversity that the yatra reflects, with people from different faiths and sects coming together to make the pilgrimage a smooth and enjoyable journey for all seekers. He noted that the yatra sows the seed of bliss and creates a path for inner transformation while promoting cultural ethos.
During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor assessed various amenities, including healthcare, sanitation, communication, lodging, langar facilities, and the day-wise status of the yatris arriving at the Base Camp. He directed officials to deploy adequate personnel, machinery, and road safety measures from Sonamarg to Baltal.
The Lieutenant Governor also reviewed the operations of the DRDO Hospital and the Joint Police Control Room established at Baltal. Dr Raghav Langer, Secretary Planning, Development and Monitoring Department, provided a briefing on the deployment of officers, traffic management, heli services operations, installation of tents, sanitation, power and water supply, and the Rapid Assessment System for feedback.
Speaking to media persons during his visit, the Lieutenant Governor expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by the citizens and the unprecedented increase in tourism influx in the Union Territory this year due to the auspicious occasion of the holy Yatra. He expressed his belief that the pilgrims returning to their respective states would become brand ambassadors for the new and aspiring Jammu Kashmir.
The Lieutenant Governor commended the collective efforts of stakeholder departments, the Border Roads Organization (BRO), police, and security forces. He highlighted the widening of the track, installation of safety railings at vulnerable stretches, and elaborate security arrangements, which will ensure the safe and hassle-free pilgrimage for the devotees. Additionally, he mentioned the increased holding areas and sufficient holding capacity in case of inclement weather conditions, as well as the extensive arrangements made for healthcare.
To enhance safety and organization, the Radio Frequency Identification System (RFID) has been fully implemented for pilgrims, and special attention has been given to sanitation and cleanliness. A sufficient number of emergency responders from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed.
Accompanying the Lieutenant Governor during his visit were Dr.Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, CEO of the ShriAmarnathJi Shrine Board, Vijay Kumar, ADGP Kashmir, Shyambir, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, and other senior officers from the District Administration, SASB, Police, and Army.
