Jammu, July 2 (KNB): The annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra commenced on Thursday with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagging off the first batch of 4,822 pilgrims from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas here amid tight security arrangements.
Officials said the pilgrims left for the twin base camps of Baltal and Nunwan (Pahalgam) in a convoy of 259 vehicles under multi-layered security cover.
According to official figures, 2,510 pilgrims are undertaking the pilgrimage through the traditional Pahalgam route, while 2,312 have opted for the shorter Baltal route.
The first batch comprises 3,707 men, 816 women, 16 children, 246 sadhus and 37 sadhvis.
The convoy includes 106 buses, 39 medium motor vehicles (MMVs), 111 light motor vehicles (LMVs) and three two-wheelers.
Officials said the Baltal-bound convoy departed Bhagwati Nagar at 6:10 a.m., followed by the Pahalgam-bound convoy at 6:35 a.m. Security personnel have been deployed along the entire route to ensure the safe movement of the pilgrims.
Flagging off the yatra, the Lieutenant Governor wished the pilgrims a safe and successful pilgrimage and said comprehensive arrangements had been put in place for the annual event.
He said adequate security, healthcare, sanitation, accommodation and other essential facilities have been arranged to ensure the smooth conduct of the yatra.
The pilgrims are expected to reach the Baltal and Nunwan base camps later in the day before proceeding towards the Holy Cave Shrine as per the scheduled programme.
The 38-day pilgrimage is being conducted under elaborate security and logistical arrangements made jointly by the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, the Jammu and Kashmir administration, police, security forces and other departments. (KNB)