Nuzhat Mushtaq
Srinagar: Over 3.38 lakh devotees have completed the Amarnath Yatra in the first 18 days, according to Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) officials. Another 3,740 pilgrims left for Kashmir on Wednesday, divided into two escorted convoys, amid tight security measures.
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The novel ‘Pony ambulance service’ has been introduced this year to treat sick pilgrims on both the Baltal and Pahalgam Yatra tracks. This service has successfully treated 1,200 patients so far, according to authorities.
Pilgrims opting for the traditional 48-km Pahalgam route and 1,918 taking the shorter 14-km Baltal route. The 52-day yatra, which began on June 29, will conclude on August 19.
Last year, over 4.5 lakh pilgrims paid obeisance at the cave shrine. The pilgrims’ enthusiasm was palpable as they chanted “Bum Bum Bholey” while departing from the Jammu base camp.
The administration, civil society organizations, trade unions and the locals gave a warm welcome to the pilgrims. All arrangements have been made to ensure the safety of the pilgrims.
All arrangements have been made to ensure the safety of the pilgrims. Around 800 CCTV cameras have been installed on the pilgrimage routes. Besides, 500 additional companies of security forces have been deployed.
