Srinagar, June 26, 2025 – Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, in a press conference at Raj Bhawan, Srinagar, urged devotees to participate in large numbers for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025, commencing on July 3. He detailed comprehensive measures to ensure a safe, seamless, and spiritually enriching pilgrimage, highlighting strengthened security, enhanced infrastructure, and pilgrim-centric facilities.
Strengthened Security Measures
The Lieutenant Governor emphasized a robust security grid with multi-layer security arrangements. The Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and J&K Police have implemented extensive measures to ensure pilgrim safety. Below is an overview of key security enhancements:
| Security Measure | Details |
|---|---|
| Multi-Layer Security | Comprehensive security grid with increased deployment of J&K Police and CAPFs. |
| Command and Control Centres | Integrated centres established for real-time monitoring and coordination. |
| Vulnerable Spots | Identified and secured with dedicated safety measures. |
| Safety Handrails | Installed along the entire Baltal track and over 20 km of Pahalgam track. |
| Tourist Spot Security | Enhanced security at key tourist locations for added safety. |
Pilgrim-Centric Infrastructure and Facilities
The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB) has made significant strides in improving facilities for pilgrims, focusing on accessibility, comfort, and sustainability. Key enhancements include:
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Yatra Track Improvements | Tracks widened to ~12 feet on Baltal and Pahalgam routes; Kalimata stretch now has a gentler slope. |
| Track Illumination | Grid power connectivity along Baltal track to Holy Cave and Panjtarni; work ongoing for Pahalgam track. |
| Accommodation | Upgraded Yatri Niwas: Baltal (800 beds), Nunwan (900 beds), Pantha Chowk (1,000 beds). |
| Darshan Platform | Replaced with stainless steel platform with wood flooring, enabling Darshan in four rows. |
| Canopy at Holy Cave | Installed over stairs to protect from rain, snowfall, or sun. |
| Digital Services | Digital pre-paid system for hiring pony, pithu, and palki services. |
| Health Facilities | 100-bedded hospitals at Baltal and Pahalgam; expanded clinical bed capacity at Panjtarni and upper camps. |
| Sanitation and Sustainability | Special focus on cleanliness; sustainable practices implemented. |
| Additional Amenities | Foot over bridge at Nunwan, cloak rooms, e-rickshaw services, and Prasad counters at the Holy Cave. |
Other Highlights
- Local Support: The LG praised the role of media and J&K residents in ensuring the Yatra’s success.
- Convoy Travel: Pilgrims urged to travel in designated convoys for safety.
- Spiritual Atmosphere: Base camps are filled with spiritual fervor, enhancing the pilgrimage experience.
The Lieutenant Governor underscored the SASB’s achievements over the past two years in creating a pilgrim-centric ecosystem, ensuring a hassle-free Darshan at the Holy Cave and comprehensive facilities for movement, lodging, electricity, water, sanitation, communication, and health. These measures aim to make the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025 safe, accessible, and sustainable for all devotees.
