Baltal Gets Major Boost with New Yatri Niwas and Disaster Centre Inaugurated by LG Manoj Sinha

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the ONGC-supported Yatri Niwas and Disaster Management Centre at Baltal, Ganderbal. Developed under ONGC’s CSR initiative, the facility is aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of creating a safer and more inclusive Amarnath Yatra experience. Spread over 6,315 square meters, the complex includes a Yatri Niwas with accommodation for 800 pilgrims, a VIP guest house, registration and security infrastructure, and a dedicated disaster-response unit. Designed to withstand the region’s extreme terrain and weather, the facility offers vital support to the over 5 lakh pilgrims who travel the challenging 14-km Baltal route each year. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha described the facility as a major step in ensuring safe and dignified facilities for devotees. “This is not just a yatra support centre—it’s a year-round asset for locals, too,” he said, praising ONGC’s continued contribution to Jammu and Kashmir’s development. In 2024, ONGC also built permanent 100-bed hospitals at Baltal and Chandanwari, replacing temporary medical camps. These facilities now function as Primary Health Centres, benefitting both yatris and residents. The infrastructure also supports local employment and economic activity, benefiting transporters, vendors, and artisans. Three more ONGC-supported centres are under construction—at Nunwan and Bijbehara (to be completed by September 2025), and at Sidhra, Jammu (by September 2026). These will further boost lodging, logistics, and emergency response. Despite security concerns following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, over 3.31 lakh devotees have registered for the 2025 yatra. The administration has deployed 581 CAPF companies, drones, and advanced surveillance to ensure a peaceful yatra. LG Sinha reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey. The Baltal complex stands as a symbol of service, faith, and resilience—supporting pilgrims and uplifting communities across Jammu and Kashmir.