Amarnath Yatra 2025 begins with tight security as pilgrims trek from Baltal and Nunwan

Srinagar, July 3, 2025 – The annual Amarnath Yatra, a revered Hindu pilgrimage to the 3,880-meter-high cave shrine in the south Kashmir Himalayas, began today with thousands of devotees setting off from the twin base camps of Baltal and Nunwan. The 38-day spiritual journey, which concludes on August 9, 2025, centers on the naturally formed ice-lingam, a sacred symbol of Lord Shiva. Amid heightened security concerns following a terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, that killed 26 people, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has deployed an extensive security framework to ensure the safety of over 331,000 registered pilgrims.Pilgrims Embark on Sacred JourneyThe first batch of 5,892 pilgrims, comprising men, women, children, and sadhus, was flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu on July 2, 2025. The convoy of 310 vehicles reached the Kashmir Valley by Wednesday afternoon, warmly welcomed by locals in Kulgam, Anantnag, and Srinagar districts. Of these, 2,489 pilgrims chose the shorter but steeper 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district, while 3,403 opted for the traditional 48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag district. Chanting “Bam Bam Bhole” and “Har Har Mahadev,” pilgrims began their trek at dawn on Thursday, undeterred by recent security threats.

Unprecedented Security MeasuresThe Amarnath Yatra, long considered a high-value target for terror groups, is under unprecedented security this year due to the recent Pahalgam attack, which led to a 10.19% drop in registrations compared to 2024. The Jammu and Kashmir administration, in collaboration with central forces, has implemented a multi-layered security grid to safeguard pilgrims along both routes and the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44). Below are the key security measures:

1. Massive Deployment of Forces: A total of 581 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) companies have been deployed, with 219 from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), alongside personnel from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and Jammu and Kashmir Police. These forces are stationed at base camps, along pilgrimage routes, and at key transit points.
2. Advanced Surveillance Systems: For the first time, facial recognition systems (FRS) have been installed along both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes, connected to a database of known militants and suspects. CCTV cameras monitor the routes and NH-44, with real-time oversight from a high-tech Integrated Command and Control Centre and Police Control Room in Jammu. Aerial surveillance is also in place to enhance monitoring.
3. RFID Tracking: All pilgrims and vehicles are equipped with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags for real-time tracking, ensuring rapid response in emergencies. Pilgrims must collect RFID cards after biometric eKYC verification at Jammu or Kashmir, without which access beyond control gates is prohibited.
4. No Flying Zone: The Jammu and Kashmir government has declared both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes as “No Flying Zones” from July 1 to August 10, 2025, banning drones and other aerial devices unless authorized by the deputy commissioner. Helicopter services, previously available, have been suspended this year due to safety concerns following recent incidents in Uttarakhand.
5. Specialized CRPF Women’s Team: A dedicated CRPF “May I Help You” women’s team is deployed along the Baltal route to assist female pilgrims, providing support and enhancing security.
6. Joint Checkpoints and Escorts: Joint checkpoints have been established at key locations, including NH-44, city outskirts, and near Bhagwati Nagar base camp. Pilgrims travel in escorted convoys from Jammu to the base camps, with traffic restrictions and daily advisories to minimize disruptions.
7. Mock Drills and Disaster Preparedness: The Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Department conducted a joint mock drill along NH-44 to prepare for natural calamities like glacier burst floods (GLOF). The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has established a permanent Disaster Management and Yatri Niwas Complex at Baltal, operational from July 4, 2025, with similar facilities under development at Nunwan, Bijbehara, and Sidhra.
8. Media Restrictions: Authorities have warned journalists against disguising themselves as pilgrims to bypass security checks, emphasizing strict adherence to protocols to maintain order.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, also chairman of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), has personally overseen preparations, visiting Baltal and Nunwan base camps multiple times in the past week. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, stationed in Srinagar, is monitoring arrangements to ensure a seamless pilgrimage.

Facilities and Local SupportBeyond security, the administration has enhanced pilgrim facilities. ONGC’s Baltal Yatri Niwas, spanning 6,315 square meters, includes lodging, sanitation, and emergency response infrastructure. Similar complexes are planned for completion at Nunwan and Bijbehara by September 2025 and Sidhra by September 2026. Medical support includes 100-bed hospitals at Chandanwari (Pahalgam) and Baltal, mobile medical teams, oxygen booths, and emergency evacuation systems. The J&K Waqf Board, led by Chairperson Dr. Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, has set up a Bhandara at Baltal to serve pilgrims, reinforcing Hindu-Muslim unity.

Local communities have welcomed pilgrims with garlands and traditional hospitality at Baltal, Nunwan, Nowgam, and Pantha Chowk, fostering a sense of unity. Deputy Commissioner Jatin Kishore assured full administrative support for a safe and smooth pilgrimage.

Challenges and ResilienceThe Pahalgam terror attack and the suspension of helicopter services have reduced registrations, with some regions like Ludhiana reporting a nearly 50% drop in medical certificate applications. However, devotees remain steadfast. Ram Prasad from Azamgarh stated, “Terrorist threats will never shake our spiritual resolve.” Lieutenant Governor Sinha echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the Yatra’s spiritual significance and enhanced security measures will make it historic.

Security Measures Table