The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — The revered Amarnath Yatra 2023 has achieved a momentous milestone, surpassing the total number of pilgrims from the previous year. This year's Yatra has been distinguished by its seamless arrangements, unwavering services, and meticulous management, garnering widespread acclaim and nurturing a sense of harmony among people hailing from diverse backgrounds.

Today, a total of 9,150 Yatries have had the privilege of performing Darshan at the sacred holy cave, contributing to the cumulative figure of 3,69,288. This surpasses last year's total of 3,65,721, signalling a significant increase in the number of devotees undertaking this holy pilgrimage.

The resounding success of Amarnath Yatra 2023 can be primarily attributed to the impeccable arrangements made by the administration. Every facet of the Yatra, from the provision of langar services to healthcare facilities, sanitation, transportation, and security measures, has been meticulously managed to ensure unparalleled convenience for the pilgrims. The seamless execution of these arrangements has led to a surge in the influx of devotees who are eager to embark on the spiritually enriching journey, and they have expressed their deep appreciation for the well-coordinated efforts.

Beyond the spiritual significance, the Yatra has also witnessed the arrival of distinguished personalities from various walks of life like the renowned badminton player Saina Nehwal and Bollywood actress Sara Ali Khan. This diverse gathering serves as a testament to the universal appeal of the Amarnath Yatra, attracting individuals from all corners of the globe, united in their reverence for this sacred pilgrimage.

The Amarnath Yatra 2023 has also witnessed a significant increase in the number of foreign pilgrims visiting the holy shrine. The pilgrimage's allure extends beyond national boundaries, drawing people from all over the world to participate in this spiritually enriching experience.

The pilgrims have wholeheartedly lauded the administration's tireless efforts in ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey. The efficient organization of the Yatra has provided them with a sense of comfort and security, fostering an environment of gratitude and admiration.

Additionally, the Yatra coincided with the commemoration of Kargil Diwas at all Yatra base camps, wherein the triumph of the Kargil War was honoured. The event saw active participation from various security departments, including the Army, CRPF, Police, NDRF, SDRF, Civil Administration, and Yatries, further strengthening the bond between the armed forces and the civilian population. The Yatra served as an opportunity to pay tribute to the valiant soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the defence of the nation.

As the Amarnath Yatra 2023 continues to witness an ever-growing number of devotees and garners widespread praise for its well-organized arrangements, it stands as a shining example of communal harmony, unity, and devotion. This sacred journey transcends geographical boundaries, bringing people from all walks of life together in a shared spirit of oneness and reverence.

In conclusion, the Amarnath Yatra 2023 has not only surpassed the previous year's numbers but has also touched the hearts of countless devotees, leaving an indelible impression of unity, spirituality, and appreciation for the administration's meticulous efforts. The Yatra remains a cherished experience for all pilgrims and continues to inspire a sense of reverence and devotion in the hearts of those who undertake this sacred expedition.

SRINAGAR — A 53-year-old woman Yatri was killed while two members of Mountain Rescue Team of J&K Police were grievously injured in a shooting stone incident between Sangam Top and Lower Cave in south Kashmir late last evening, officials said on Sunday.

They told the news agency GNS that while the woman Urmilaben daughter of Laxmi Narayan was seriously injured after being hit by the shooting stone, two members of Mountain Rescue Team of J&K Police, Mohammed Saleem and Mohammed Yaseen, suffered grievous wounds while they were trying to rescue her.

The woman succumbed to her injuries before being shifted to the hospital while the injured police personnel were evacuated by army and private helicopter on Yatra duty, they said.

DGP J&K Dilbag Singh has condoled the “unfortunate” death of the Yatri and has also expressed sympathy with the bereaved family. The DGP appreciated the commitment of two policemen and expressed his thanks to everyone involved in the quick evacuation. He wished early recovery to the injured.

Meanwhile, eight CRPF personnel, on their way to perform Yatra, sustained injuries, five of them mild, when their vehicle skidded off the road and fell into a ditch near one kilometer from Nilgrath area in Baltal in Ganderbal district of central Kashmir.

One among three seriously injured, Patil Bhattu, has been referred to SKIMS Soura, they said and added that the condition of the rest of the injured is stated to be stable.

"The personnel had taken casual leave to perform Yatra," they added.

SRINAGAR — In view of the forth-coming Amarnath Yatra, all the tankers and empty vehicles from Jammu will be allowed via Mughal road only.

An order issued by Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri said the downside movement of fruit-laden trucks and other vehicles is being hampered and requires to be given priority.

“In view of the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2023 and taking into account the condition of National Highway-44, besides, the erratic weather which is leading to frequent landslide and shooting stones. The downside movement of fruit-laden trucks and other vehicles is being hampered and requires to be given priority,” the order reads.

Accordingly, all tankers of Petrol, Diesel and LPG bulk gas; all empty LPG cylinder carrying trucks; all empty vehicles of FCI and any other vehicle having up to 10-tyres while returning to Jammu shall only use Mughal Road.

“In view of the above, you are enjoined up to impress upon the concerned to follow directions immediately. The Mughal Road will remain open for vehicular traffic from morning 6.00 AM to 6.00 PM," the order reads.

“Any violation of the same may attract punitive action from Traffic Police. Action taken report shall reach immediately,” the order reads.

RAMBAN — Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar today visited district Ramban to review the arrangements being put in place for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2023 and to inspect progress on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway's four-laning works.

Deputy Commissioner Ramban, Mussarat Islam; SSP, Mohita Sharma; SSP Traffic National Highway, Rohit Baksotra; ADC, Harbans Sharma; PD NHAI, Parshotam Kumar besides senior officers of SASB, JPDCL, Jal Shakti, PWD, NHAI and other concerned officers accompanied the Divisional Commissioner.

During the tour, the Div Com visited Yatri Niwas Chanderkote and inspected the arrangements being put in place for the smooth conduct of the Yatra. He also inspected Langar sites along National Highway besides inspecting national highway works.

He directed NHAI and construction companies to maintain NH-44 and stationed adequate machinery at all vulnerable places to clear roads without any delay. He instructed the executing agency and other stakeholders to ensure the completion of works by implementing all plans and directions issued from time to time for the smooth conduct of the holy Yatra.

He also directed officers of NHAI to complete the maintenance work to provide safe passage to commuters. He stressed on expeditious maintenance of the highway, traffic regulation, following lane enforcement, and surface maintenance.

The Div Com also chaired a meeting and emphasized upon the stakeholder departments to synergize efforts to make adequate arrangements well in advance for the smooth conduct of the holy Yatra.

The Div Com instructed the Traffic Department to formulate a traffic plan for the smooth flow of traffic on important routes. He asked the district administration Ramban to ensure the availability of water, power, and toilets at each lodgement center.

The Div Com also reviewed in detail the facilities at Yatri Niwas Chanderkote and issued directions for putting in all necessary arrangements in time.

The Div Com instructed all the concerned departments to expedite the works to ensure that all necessary arrangements are put in place well before the commencement of the Yatra.

SRINAGAR — Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said that the local residents are making immense contributions to the successful conduct of the Yatra that will commence on July 1.

In a series of tweets, Office of LG J&K, as per the news agency KNS said that it will also increase livelihood opportunities and boost the local economy.

He said that to mark the ceremonial beginning of the Annual Amarnath Yatra, he attended Pratham Puja via video conferencing. “For millions of devotees all over the world, pilgrimage to the Holy Cave of Baba Amarnath is a cherished life-long dream.”

He said that the government is committed to ensuring that the best possible arrangements are put in place for the comfort and well-being of pilgrims. “Dedicated efforts have been made in the last few years to bring about perceptible improvements in infrastructure and other facilities.”

He added that the officials of Shri Amarnath Shrine Board are working hard to ensure that the needs and requirements of devotees are taken care of during the Yatra. “We are constantly striving for better facilities and services for pilgrims.”

SRINAGAR — Seven ITBP personnel died while 32 others returning from Amarnath Yatra duty faced grave injuries on Tuesday after a bus fell into a deep gorge at Zig Morh in Pahalgam area of south Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The bus was on its way from Chandanwari to the Police Control Room in Srinagar.

A statement released by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police read, “A civil bus carrying 39 personnel (37 from ITBP and two from J&K Police) fell down to a roadside river bed after its brakes reportedly failed. The troops were on their way from Chandanwari to Pahalgam. Casualties feared.”

“In a road accident near Chandanwari Pahalgam in Anantnag district, 7 ITBP personnel got martyred while as several others got injured, who are being airlifted to Army hospital, Srinagar for treatment,” police said in a tweet, adding, “Further details shall follow.”

Injured persons were shifted to SDH Pahalgam for further treatment and are now being airlifted to Army’s 92 base hospital here.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has expressed his deepest anguish and conveyed condolences to the bereaved families over the loss of their loved ones in the bus accident. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured and assured them that all possible assistance will be provided to the injured personnel.

“Deeply anguished by the bus accident near Chandanwari in which we have lost our brave ITBP personnel. My condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. All possible assistance is being provided to the injured personnel," Sinha tweeted.

GANDERBAL — Owing to fresh landslides at multiple locations due to incessant rains, the Srinagar-Leh highway has been closed by the officials.

The highway, which connects Srinagar and Leh, was closed for vehicular movement due to fresh landslides that were triggered by heavy rains in Chine Nallah, Bajri Nallah, Pagal Nallah, Pani Metha and other locations in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district.

An official confirmed to news agency KNT that the highway was closed during the intervening night after the fresh landslides at multiple locations in Zojila. He said men and machinery have been pressed into service to restore traffic movement on the highway.

Scores of vehicles have been stranded at Sonmarg and Minimarg, the official said. He said that due to inclement weather, Amarnath Yatra has been stopped.

“The Yatris who intended to visit the holy cave by foot have been stopped as a consequence of the heavy rains and the slippery condition of the trek, however, the chopper service is operational,” he said.

The official said that 366 pilgrims took a flight from Nilgrath to Panjtarni on Monday while 357 Yatris came back from Panjtarni to Nilgrath through chopper.

JAMMU — Intense rainfall coupled with cloudbursts triggered massive flash floods in Jammu parts, damaging many residential houses and other structures on Thursday.

As per reports by the news agency KNO, dozens of houses and structures suffered damage due to rains, flash floods and landslides in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Poonch, Rajouri, Ramban, Udhampur and Reasi districts.

Authorities rescued some school children and teachers on the city outskirts while some bridges were washed away and scores of vehicles were stuck on roads and highways in various districts of the region.

The Jammu-Srinagar national highway was also closed for traffic due to landslides and shooting stones in the Ramban district, resulting in the halting of the Amarnath Yatra at Chanderkot.

The water level of most of the rivers like Chenab, Tawi, Ujh, Basantar and other Nallahs was running above the danger mark.

Officials said that the entire region recorded heavy rainfall since early Thursday morning, adding that rainfall in Jammu between 8.30 hours to 9.30 hours recorded around 98 mm, which is close to a cloudburst (100mm).

“In Jammu, police and locals swung into action and rescued students and teachers trapped in a school building due to flash floods in the Muthi-Udhaywala area," the officials said.

Several people escaped unhurt when an old building collapsed due to heavy rains in the Kanak Mandi area. "Most of the roads and dozens of colonies in Jammu city were inundated due to heavy rainfall gauged over 80 mm in a few hours,” they said.

The officials said that the worst-affected areas in Jammu city due to the rainfall and subsequent flash floods were Nanaknagar, Trikuta Nagar, Channi, Bahu Fort, Keran, lower Roopnagar, Kangrail, Raipur, Kot-Bhalwal, Burn and Ghrota, Paloura, Takab Tillo, Channi Himmat and other low-lying areas where the rainwater entered houses.

“Dozens of vehicles were trapped on a highway in Kathua. In Kishtwar, a foot-bridge was washed away in the Afti area,” the officials said. “In Reasi district, the new track to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine atop the Trikuta hills was closed as a precautionary measure following heavy rains in the area.”

As per the advisory, those residing in slide-prone areas should remain extra vigilant and report any untoward incident to the administration at the earliest.

"The Amarnath Yatra convoys that left Jammu have been halted at Chanderkote. Travellers are advised not to undertake the journey before confirming the status of the highway from our control rooms in Jammu and Srinagar," a department official said.

Meanwhile, during the past 24 hours, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) observed rainfall and thunderstorms at many places in Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit, Baltistan and Muzaffarabad.

Furthermore, the IMD forecast adds that fairly widespread showers, along with isolated heavy falls (64.5 mm-115.5 mm), thunderstorms and lightning, may very well continue over Jammu-Kashmir on Thursday and Friday, (July 28-29).

Accordingly, the IMD’s regional MeT centre in Srinagar has issued an Orange Alert (‘be prepared’ for rough weather) over the districts of Jammu, Kathua and Kishtwar on Thursday and Friday. All the other districts will remain on a Yellow Alert (‘be aware’ of local weather) during this 48-hour period.

Since the beginning of July, Jammu-Kashmir has collectively recorded 164.9 mm precipitation, which marks a 4% increase compared to its average for this time frame. However, these rain figures look set to bloat further owing to the ongoing rain spell.

In fact, these intense rains will also engulf the neighbouring northern and north-western states until August 1, with Himachal, Uttarakhand, north Haryana and Chandigarh prone to receiving very heavy precipitation over the next 2-3 days.

Three houses damaged due to incessant rains in Budgam

At least three residential houses were damaged after the land caved in the Rawatpora Khag area of central Kashmir’s Budgam district on Thursday.

Official sources, as per news agency KNT, said that three houses were damaged after land sunk due to wet weather. They said no local, however, has been injured.

The damaged houses belong to Abdul Rashid Dar, Abdul Rashid Rather and Abdul Gani Bhat.

Police and some officials from the administration have rushed to the spot to assess the quantum of loss. All the residents have been shifted to a safe location.

QAZIGUND — At least 20 Amarnath Yatra pilgrims were injured in a road accident at the Badragund area of Qazigund in south Kashmir’s Kulgam on Thursday, officials said here.

An official, as per the news agency Kashmir News Observer, said that a tipper dumper rammed into a bus, carrying Amarnath Yatris pilgrims at Badragund crossing on Jammu-Srinagar national highway, resulting in injuries to 20 Yatris.

He said that among the 20 injured pilgrims, 18 have sustained minor injuries while two with grievous injuries have been shifted to GMC Anantnag for treatment.

The official added that police have taken cognisance of the matter.

SRINAGAR — After remaining suspended for three days due to cloudburst on Friday at lower Amarnath cave, killing at least 16 people and injuring dozens, Amarnath Yatra resumed on Monday, reports said here.

Reports, as per Kashmir News Service, said that Amarnath Yatra resumed today morning after a fresh batch of Yatris was allowed to proceed towards the holy cave from Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam.

They said that the Yatra resumed at around 8 AM in the morning after it was delayed due to rain in the morning. “Yatra was scheduled to start at 5 AM today, but due to rain it got delayed to 8 AM,” they said.

Yatra was suspended after a cloudburst hit at lower Amarnath cave shrine on Friday, in which at least 16 people died, while dozens were injured.

16 bodies recovered, seven identified

At least 16 bodies were recovered from the lower Amarnath cave where a cloudburst incident took place on Friday evening while the authorities said that only seven bodies have been identified so far.

Officials while divulging the details, as per the news agency Kashmir News Observer, said that several people are still missing while the rescue operation is going on to track them.

The officials said that 56 persons have suffered injuries in the incident and 40 among them have received minor injuries and 16 have been airlifted to SKIMS hospital for specialized treatment.

The rescue operations are ongoing by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), SDRF, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), CRPF, BSF, Army and J&K Police. At least six teams have been set to launch the massive rescue operation at the spot, officials said.

Earlier, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) informed that about 15,000 people were safely shifted till now after the cloudburst incident near the holy shrine of Amarnath on Friday.

"Most of the yatris who were stranded near Holy cave area due to flash flood last evening have been shifted to Panjtarni. ITBP had expanded its Route opening and protection parties from Lower Holy cave to Panjtarni. The evacuation continued till 3.38 AM. No Yatri is left on the track. About 15,000 people were safely shifted till now," they said.

Besides, BSF’s MI-17 chopper was pressed into service to air transport the injured persons and dead bodies as well from Neelgrah helipad, Baltal to BSF Camp Srinagar for further treatment or further ferrying bodies to their homes.

Furthermore, the Indian Air Force has deployed 2 each ALH Dhruv and Mi-17 V5 helicopters from Srinagar for the rescue operations in the Amarnath cave site. One AN-32 and Ilyushin-76 transport aircraft are on stand-by in Chandigarh for further requirements, IAF officials said.

Meanwhile, the administration had set up a helpline for the Amarnath Yatra. "Helpline numbers for Amarnath Yatra: NDRF: 011-23438252 011-23438253; Kashmir Divisional Helpline: 0194-2496240; Shrine Board Helpline: 0194-2313149," the public relations department of the government and the SASB tweeted from their respective handles.

SRINAGAR — In view of the cloudburst at Amarnath Cave Shrine, the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir has cancelled leaves of all staff and has directed them to report immediately. Besides, all officers have been directed to keep their phones on.

According to an order issued by DHSK, as per the news agency Kashmir News Observer, in view of the unfortunate incident of cloud burst at Baltal near the holy cave in which a number of Yatris are feared dead and injured directions for immediate compliance by all are hereby issued.

The order stated that all the officers are directed to keep their mobiles switched on, while chief medical officers of south Kashmir i.e. Pulwama, Kulgam, Shopian and Anantnag are directed to send additional doctors and paramedical staff along with drugs, disposables and emergency aid kits to Pahalgam.

“Chief Medical Officers of north and central Kashmir i.e. Srinagar, Bandipora, Baramulla and Budgam are directed to send additional doctors and paramedical staff along with drugs, disposables and emergency aid kits to Baltal,” it reads.

As per the order in charge Controller of Stores (Health) is directed to coordinate with General Manager JKMSCL Srinagar for keeping emergency supplies ready to be dispatched to Baltal and Pahalgam immediately in consultation with Yatra Officer DHSK.

The order further stated that all leaves of the staff (Regular/Contractual) are hereby cancelled with the directions to report duties immediately.

SRINAGAR — The death toll in the flash floods triggered by a cloudburst at Baltal area, which houses a base camp for the Amarnath pilgrimage in Ganderbal district, rose to 13 with the recovery of three more bodies while more than 40 people are still missing, reports and officials said on Friday.

The cloud burst occurred at around 5:30 p.m. and it triggered flash floods. More than two dozen tents and three langers were reported washed away by the floods. While a few persons have been rescued, around 40 people are still missing. “Three more bodies have been recovered , taking the toll to thirteen,” a senior NDRF official told GNS.

Teams of police, NDRF and SDRF besides security forces are continuously working at the spot to find out the missing, officials told GNS.

Meanwhile Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
“Spoke to Hon'ble PM & Hon'ble HM and briefed about the incident. Hon'ble PM & Hon'ble HM has assured all the help,” he tweeted, adding, “Our priority is to save the lives of people. Instructions have been issued to provide all necessary assistance to pilgrims. I am closely monitoring the situation”.

He also expressed his grief and offered condolence.
“Deeply pained by unfortunate incident of cloudburst at Shri Amarnathji holy cave, in which precious lives have been lost. I send my heartfelt condolences to bereaved families,” he said, adding, “Rescue operation by NDRF, SDRF, BSF, Army, JKP & Shrine board admin is in progress.”

Earlier in a tweet, police said that “some langars and tents have come under cloud burst/flash floods at HolyCave.

“Six more deaths reported (Total 08 deaths so far). Injured persons airlifted for treatment. Rescue operation still going on,” it said. “Situation under control,” IGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar said.

SRINAGAR — At least 10 pilgrims have died while more than three dozen are missing after a cloudburst hit Baltal area, which houses a base camp for the Amarnath pilgrimage, in the Ganderbal district on Friday.

The cloud burst happened around 5:30 PM and it triggered flash floods. Five people have been rescued while around 40 people are missing.

More than two dozen tents and three langers have been reportedly washed away by the floods. “10 pilgrims have died and their bodies have been recovered,” a senior NDRF official was quoted as having said by news agency GNS.

Teams of Police, NDRF and SDRF besides security forces have been pressed into the service, officials said.

Earlier in a tweet, police said that “some langars and tents have come under cloud burst/flash floods at the holy cave.

SRINAGAR — A cloudburst hit Baltal area, which houses a base camp for the Amarnath pilgrimage, in Ganderbal district on Friday.

So far at least four Yatris have died—three of them females—due to the flash floods triggered by it but authorities fear that the number could rise. More than two dozen tents and three langers have been reportedly washed away by the floods.

Teams of Police, NDRF and SDRF besides security forces have been pressed into the service, officials quoted by news agency GNS said. However, police have so far confirmed two casualties.

“Some langars and tents have come under cloud burst/flash floods at the holy cave. Two deaths were reported. Rescue operations by Police, NDRF and security forces are in progress. The injured are being airlifted for treatment. However, the situation is under control,” IGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar said in a tweet.

SRINAGAR — Due to inclement weather, Amarnath Yatra has been temporarily suspended from Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam toward the holy cave shrine, officials said here on Tuesday.

An official, as per news agency Kashmir News Observer, said that due to inclement weather, no Yatri is being allowed to go ahead of the Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam towards the holy cave.

He said that Yatra has been temporarily suspended for the safety of Yatris and presently around 3000 Yatris are staying at Nunwan base camp.

Meanwhile, officials said that around 65,000 pilgrims have paid obeisance at the holy cave shrine so far.

Amarnath Yatra commenced on June 30 and will conclude on August 11 on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan.

SRINAGAR — Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK) has taken a strong note of the harassment and problems being faced by the local, leisure and adventure tourists in view of the security arrangements for the Amarnath Yatra.

In a statement, according to news agency Kashmir News Trust, TAAK President Farooq Ahmed Kuthoo said many tourists have got stuck on highways due to severe restrictions on the movement of non-Yatra tourists.

"Not only have such restrictions put the general tourists to a lot of inconveniences but the travel agents outside J&K have stopped promoting Kashmir till mid-August, bringing down the tourist influx abruptly," said Kuthoo.

Kuthoo said preferential treatment to Amarnath Yatris is affecting Kashmir tourism badly. "Kashmiris have welcomed Yatris and other tourists alike for ages and no problem was faced by them. This year, the security arrangements have only compounded the problems and caused immense loss to leisure, adventure and other tourism segments," said TAAK President.

TAAK has appealed to the LG Manoj Sinha to look into it so that non-Yatra tourists don't suffer.

SRINAGAR — After the abrogation of the semi-autonomous status of Jammu and Kashmir, the LG Secretariat for the first-time invited representatives of different political parties to have an interaction with the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday.

The meeting was purely about the arrangements and management of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. However, some participants raised issues related to people to which LG Manoj Sinha assured redressal.

Out of nine political leaders who participated in the meeting, eight were from Kashmir and one from Jammu. The participants included Dr Farooq Abdullah, Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami, Muzaffar Hussain Baig, Muzzafar Shah, Altaf Bukhari, GA Mir, Ravinder Raina, Hakeem Muhammad Yaseen and GM Shaheen. Peoples Democratic Party leader Mehbooba Mufti didn’t attend the meeting.

Divulging information about what transpired in the meeting, one of the participants said that Congress leader GA Mir, Apni Party President Syed Muhammad Altaf Bukhari and JDU Jammu Kashmir President GM Shaheen were more vocal during the meeting while others acted as mute spectators or talked spasmodically.

GA Mir raised the issue of the Srinagar-Jammu Highway complaining that commuters face hardships due to the massive presence of forces who frequently stop them from plying on the highway during the Amarnath Yatra period. LG assured him the matter will be sorted out and people won’t face any hardships.

Mir also requested the LG to allow people to visit Pahalgam who, according to him, are not permitted there after 2 PM. LG promised redressal to the issues raised by GA Mir.

While drawing the attention of the LG towards the sufferings of the people, who get stranded whenever there are landslides between Ramban and Banihal area on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway, Mir said that some vested interest elements exploit and loot the stranded passengers in absence of any government accommodation and arrangements. LG Manoj Sinha promised that make-shift camps will be installed near landslide-prone areas where the government will provide relief to the stranded passengers.

Mir also advised the LG to shun the ‘stick’ approach, saying the more the government spreads love and affection, the more the gap between people and the government will be reduced. Mir said that it is important to adopt a soft approach toward people to lessen hostilities and opposition.

All the leaders in one voice said that the people of Kashmir have always welcomed the Amarnath Yatris.

Syed Muhammad Altaf Bukhari also raised the issues related to people, urging the LG to take all measures so that locals don’t suffer on account of the Yatra.

JDU leader GM Shaheen said that during the 2008 Amarnath land row, the people of the Maisuma area of Srinagar city created community kitchens to feed pilgrims. He said the people of Kashmir have supported this Yatra even then when there were no security forces on the roads.

Shaheen urged the LG to allow Yatris to visit Srinagar city so that traders of the city will get benefited as well. He said Yatris should be allowed to take the Dalgate route also.

Shaheen also raised the issues of public importance including electricity. He suggested that such meetings should take place frequently so that gap between politicians and the government can be bridged.

Farooq Abdullah didn’t speak too much. He said the people of Kashmir have always stood by the Yatris. He said it is our responsibility to be hospitable towards the Yatris and no doubt people of Kashmir are known for their hospitality.

He shared his experience with the Yatra when he was the chief minister of the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir state.

PAHALGAM — Amid unprecedented security arrangements, the first batch of pilgrims left for the holy cave from Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam area of Anantnag district on Thursday.

Officials, according to news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that the first batch of 2,750 pilgrims left for the cave shrine, which was flagged off by DC Anantnag, Dr Piyush Singla.

Amarnath Yatra, which began today, is being held after two years as it remained suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 43-day Yatra will conclude on August 11 on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan.

Yatris, who left for the holy cave from Pahalgam were seen as very happy, besides complimenting security and other arrangements made by the administration.

Have firm belief Amarnath Yatra will be successful, peaceful: LG Sinha

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that he has a firm belief that the Amarnath Yatra, which began today, will be peaceful and successful by the blessings of Shri Amarnath Ji Baba.

Talking to a selected group of reporters today morning, Sinha said that by the blessings of Baba Amarnath Ji, the Yatra will be successful and peaceful as well.

He said that pilgrims have come from across the country and he has a firm belief that every pilgrim will go back happily and everyone’s prayers are accepted.

Sinha also said that he prayed for the development, peace and prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir, and the entire country.

ANANTNAG — Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, P K Pole on Tuesday said that Amarnath Yatra is not a mere pilgrimage but a major economic push to J&K’s economy as the government expects Rs 2000 to Rs 3000 Crore revenue from six to eight lakh pilgrims, who intend to visit tourist destinations as well.

Talking to reporters at Mir Bazar Anantnag, after reviewing arrangements for the Yatra, Pole said that the Mir Bazar Yatra facility will accommodate 2500 Yatris at a time compared to 500 earlier.

He added that all other arrangements are in place for a smooth pilgrimage this year and he welcomes Yatris with an open heart and may Lord Shiva accept their prayers.

Pole said that this year administration is expecting six to eight lakh pilgrims. "Each pilgrim stays in Kashmir for a week and spends at least Rs 35,000. They visit other tourist destinations of Kashmir as well," he said, adding that the administration is expecting Rs 2000 to Rs 3000 Crore income, which will give a boost to J&K's economy.

He added that there is also a toll-free number for Yatris and clean drinking water and shelter facilities are available at base camps and other points.

Pole further said the Shrine board has also introduced a mobile App for pilgrims that will provide the latest updates to Yatris including the weather update.

SRINAGAR — Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Vijay Kumar on Wednesday said that drone surveillance and RFID chips will be part of three-tier security arrangements for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra.

Talking to reporters on the sidelines of the wreath-laying ceremony of a policeman who was killed in Kreeri, Baramulla encounter, the IGP Kashmir, as per news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that for the past month, police along with other security agencies have been reviewing the security arrangements for the upcoming Yatra.

“This year, drone surveillance and RFID chips will be part of the three-tier security arrangements for the pilgrims,” the IGP said, adding that “security forces will ensure incident-free and smooth Yatra.”

He said in a 'chance' encounter, they lost a brave policeman. “Three Jaish-e-Muhammad militants were killed in the encounter. At times, we have to bear the losses in chance encounters,” the IGP said.

He said the three slain JeM militants were planning a strike in Srinagar that has been averted.