JAMMU, July 8, 2025 – The Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025 continues to gain momentum as a fresh batch of 7,541 pilgrims departed from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas base camp in Jammu early Tuesday morning, heading toward the sacred 3,880-meter-high Amarnath cave shrine in South Kashmir Himalayas. The convoy, comprising 309 vehicles, was escorted by a multi-tier security framework, ensuring the safety of devotees amidst heightened security concerns following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam.
The annual 38-day pilgrimage, which began on July 3, 2025, and will conclude on August 9, 2025, has seen robust arrangements by the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, Jammu and Kashmir administration, and security forces, including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The pilgrims, traveling via the twin routes of Baltal (14 km, steeper) and Pahalgam (48 km, traditional), are supported by comprehensive security measures, including CRPF personnel, K-9 squads, and facial-recognition systems along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44).
Security and Support MeasuresThe CRPF has deployed 219 of the 581 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) companies for the Yatra, with a special focus on vulnerable stretches like the Udhampur sector. A dedicated “May I Help You” women’s team, stationed at key points along the Baltal route, assists female pilgrims with first aid, water, and guidance. Additionally, the Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) of the CRPF has been instrumental in responding to emergencies, saving lives, including a pony owner and a pilgrim on the Baltal axis.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who flagged off the initial batch on July 2, emphasized the administration’s commitment: “Undeterred by terror incidents, devotees of Bhole Baba are arriving in huge numbers, demonstrating their immense faith. The arrangements this year are historic.”
Pilgrim StatisticsThe Yatra has already seen significant participation, with over 70,000 devotees paying obeisance at the holy cave shrine by July 7, 2025. The sixth batch on July 7 marked the largest so far, with 8,605 pilgrims, including 3,486 via Baltal and 5,119 via Pahalgam.
| Date | Total Pilgrims | Baltal Route | Pahalgam Route | Vehicles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July 7, 2025 | 8,605 | 3,486 | 5,119 | 372 |
| July 8, 2025 | 7,541 | 3,321 | 4,220 | 309 |
Challenges and Community SupportDespite challenges, including a tragic bus collision near Chanderkote that injured 36 pilgrims due to brake failure, the pilgrimage has proceeded smoothly, bolstered by local support. Kashmiris, deeply affected by the Pahalgam attack, welcomed pilgrims with garlands and placards at Qazigund, reinforcing unity and resilience.
The cave shrine, housing the naturally formed ice Shivling, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s mythical powers, continues to draw devotees undeterred by threats. Pilgrims like Anjali from Hisar, Haryana, expressed confidence in the security: “It feels very safe.
Infrastructure EnhancementsThe Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has established a permanent disaster management complex at Baltal, complementing facilities at Nunwan and Bijbehara, set to be completed by September 2025. These provide lodging, sanitation, and emergency support, enhancing the Yatra experience for the over 330,000 registered pilgrims.
As the Yatra progresses, the collaborative efforts of security forces, local administration, and volunteers ensure a safe and spiritually enriching journey for devotees seeking blessings at the sacred Amarnath cave.
