Srinagar- More than 3.60 lakh pilgrims embarked on the Amarnath Yatra this year, surpassing last year’s tally with over a month still left before the annual pilgrimage concludes, an official said.
The 62-day annual pilgrimage to the 3,888-metre-high cave shrine in the south Kashmir Himalayas commenced from the twin tracks of Pahalgam in Anantnag district and Baltal in Ganderbal district on July 1.
“The Amarnath Yatra – 2023 has achieved a momentous milestone, surpassing the total number of pilgrims from the previous year,” a spokesperson said.
This year’s yatra has been distinguished by its seamless arrangements, unwavering services and meticulous management that garnered widespread acclaim and nurtured a sense of harmony among people hailing from diverse backgrounds, he said.
“Today, 9,150 yatris had the privilege of performing darshan at the sacred cave, contributing to the cumulative figure of 369,288 (3.69 lakh). This surpasses last year’s total of 365,721 (3.65 lakh), signalling a significant increase in the number of devotees undertaking the pilgrimage,” the spokesperson said.
Officials said 40 people — mostly pilgrims — have died due to various causes during this year’s pilgrimage.
The yatra has also witnessed a significant increase in the number of foreign pilgrims visiting the shrine. The pilgrimage’s allure extends beyond national boundaries, drawing people from across the world to partake in the experience, the spokesperson said.
The pilgrims have also lauded the administration’s efforts in ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey. The organisation has provided them with a sense of comfort and security, fostering an environment of gratitude and admiration, he said.
The yatra coincided with the commemoration of Kargil Diwas, which marks India’s victory in the 1999 war, at all base camps.
The event witnessed participation from the Army, Central Reserve Police Force, police, National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, civil administration and yatris, strengthening the bond between the armed forces and the civilian population, the spokesperson said.
The yatra served as an opportunity to pay tribute to the valiant soldiers who sacrificed their lives in defence of the nation, he said.
It is scheduled to conclude on August 31.
3,100 Leave For Amarnath Yatra
The 24th batch of Amarnath yatris with over 3,100 pilgrims left the base camp here on Thursday for the holy cave shrine in south Kashmir Himalayas, officials said.
Over 3.5 lakh pilgrims have so far paid obeisance at the 3,880-metre-high cave shrine since the commencement of the pilgrimage from the twin tracks of Pahalgam in Anantnag and Baltal in Ganderbal districts on July 1.
A total of 3,111 pilgrims including 2,303 men, 750 women, 47 seers and 11 children left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas here in a convoy of 124 vehicles amid heavy security of the Central Reserve Police Force on Thursday morning, the officials said.
They added that 957 pilgrims heading for Baltal were the first to leave the Bhagwati Nagar camp in 41 vehicles followed by the second convoy of 83 vehicles carrying 2,154 pilgrims for Pahalgam.
Over 1.33 lakh pilgrims have left the Bhagwati Nagar camp for the Valley since June 29, the day the first batch of pilgrims was flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
Follow this link to join our WhatsApp group: Join Now
Be Part of Quality Journalism |
Quality journalism takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce and despite all the hardships we still do it. Our reporters and editors are working overtime in Kashmir and beyond to cover what you care about, break big stories, and expose injustices that can change lives. Today more people are reading Kashmir Observer than ever, but only a handful are paying while advertising revenues are falling fast. |
| ACT NOW |
| MONTHLY | Rs 100 |  |
| YEARLY | Rs 1000 | |
| LIFETIME | Rs 10000 | |
