Another batch of pilgrims leaves for Amarnath Yatra

Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], August 4 (ANI): Another fresh batch of pilgrims left from the Srinagar base camp towards Pahalgam for the Amarnath Yatra on Sunday morning.
Despite facing disruptions due to bad weather conditions, pilgrims expressed satisfaction with the arrangements and hoped for better weather to complete their journey.
Sarad Pradhan, a pilgrim from Shillong, shared that this is his first visit to the Yatra. "I have come here for the first time with my wife. The arrangements are very good, and I am pleased with the developments made here. I hope the weather improves so we can complete our journey," he said.
Sunita Upadhyay, another pilgrim from Shillong, remarked, "This is my first visit here. I want to thank the security teams and the local people for their efforts in ensuring the safety of all pilgrims."
A pilgrim from Karnataka added, "I have come here to offer prayers to Baba. I am travelling to Pahalgam on my bike. The arrangements are really good."
Meanwhile, traffic on Baltal route was suspended on Sunday due to bad weather conditions.
Earlier on Saturday, another batch had also left for the Amarnath Yatra.
The Yatra, conducted by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, is divided into two routes: one through Pahalgam and the other through Baltal in the Ganderbal district of Kashmir. Baltal serves as the camping ground for pilgrims.
The Yatra, which officially began on June 29 from the Baltal and Pahalgam base camps, is scheduled to conclude on August 19.
This year, the Amarnath Yatra is taking place amidst a significant increase in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.
Earlier, on July 24, Inspector General of Police Kashmir VK Birdi convened a joint security review meeting at Nunwan Base Camp, Pahalgam.
The IGP directed all security agencies to coordinate closely to ensure a safe and secure Amarnath Yatra.
The meeting also addressed strategies to counter terrorism and maintain law and order, highlighting the commitment of all stakeholders to the safety and security of the Yatra pilgrims.
Devotees of Lord Shiva undertake this challenging annual pilgrimage to the holy cave located in the South Kashmir Himalayas. (ANI)