Srinagar, June 26,: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday acknowledged a noticeable decline in Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra registrations following the April 22 Pahalgam incident but remained optimistic about the turnout picking up in the coming days.
Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, he shared detailed updates on the arrangements and precautions being taken for the smooth conduct of the Yatra.
“Before the unfortunate incident, 2.36 lakh devotees had signed up for the Yatra. Though registrations dipped briefly, we have now crossed the 85,000 mark, and I believe the numbers will steadily climb,” the LG said.
Last year, over 5.12 lakh pilgrims took part in the pilgrimage, the highest figure in over a decade. However, this year’s Yatra has seen a 10.19% dip in turnout so far. Despite that, the administration is confident that faith and improved facilities will bring more yatris in the days ahead.
LG Sinha confirmed that helicopter services have been shelved this year due to past accidents and heightened safety concerns. “Our priority is to ensure every pilgrim’s safety.
Only a small percentage, around 8%, used chopper services in previous years, so this won’t have a major impact,” he clarified.
To address previous concerns about narrow pathways and weather-related disruptions, both Baltal and Chandanwari-Pahalgam tracks have been widened to 12 feet. “We have secured vulnerable zones with cross-barriers. Rain used to trigger major challenges, but this time, pilgrims are appreciating the improvements,” the LG noted.
Two permanent 100-bed hospitals, one each at Baltal and Nunwan, have been set up, with additional medical teams deployed. “This year, the medical readiness is significantly better than previous years,” Sinha added. Despite some weather-induced delays, most of the permanent accommodation at both camps is expected to be completed within the Yatra period.
Zero Landfill protocols have been reinstated this year as well, with coordinated efforts from the Shrine Board and both Rural and Urban Development departments to maintain hygiene and sanitation across the Yatra routes.
Reinforcing the security grid, an RFID-based tracking system is again in use. All pilgrims and service staff are issued cards after eKYC verification. These are integrated into a modern command-and-control system with 24/7 surveillance through high-definition cameras and a dedicated police control room.
With the involvement of J&K Police, Army, and CAPFs, the security apparatus has been strengthened through a three-tier deployment model. Pilgrim convoys from Lakhanpur to Jammu are now better regulated, and a new footover bridge at Nunwan has eliminated delays due to repeated checks.
Insurance cover for pilgrims and emergency response protocols are already in place, ensuring a quick reaction mechanism for any unforeseen circumstances.
The LG also lauded the hospitality of local Kashmiris. “The affection and care that our yatris receive from the people here is unmatched,” he said.
In response to queries about Muharram arrangements, LG Sinha confirmed that processions will be allowed on the same routes as last year, ensuring that religious observances for all communities are handled with care and coordination. [KNT]
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