Spirit Of Unity On Display At All Party Meeting Under LG Sinha
Srinagar: With the annual Amarnath Yatra set to commence on July 3, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha this week assured that extensive arrangements—spanning security, infrastructure, healthcare, and environmental management—have been put in place to ensure a safe and spiritually enriching pilgrimage for devotees. Speaking at a press conference at Raj Bhawan in Srinagar, the LG emphasized that this year’s Yatra would be among the most secure and well-organized in recent history, despite a dip in pilgrim registrations following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. “We are fully committed to ensuring a safe, smooth, and peaceful pilgrimage,” Sinha said. “With the blessings of Baba Amarnath and major improvements in infrastructure and services, this year’s Yatra will be spiritually fulfilling and memorable. It also signals a new chapter for Jammu and Kashmir.”
Enhanced Security Measures: Sinha detailed a multi-layered security arrangement being coordinated by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Army, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), covering the entire stretch from Lakhanpur to the Holy Cave. A modern, 24/7 integrated command-and-control center and an additional police hub have been set up for real-time monitoring. Every pilgrim and service provider will carry an RFID card, issued after eKYC verification, while high-definition surveillance cameras, increased ground patrols, and mock drills are part of the preparedness. “This year’s deployment is deeper and more robust than ever before. All service providers have been verified, and security at key tourist spots has been enhanced,” he added.
Decline In Registrations Post-Attack: The LG acknowledged a decline in registrations due to the recent terror incident. “Registrations dropped by 10.19 percent compared to last year. However, there has been a positive response in recent days—over 85,000 people have reconfirmed their participation,” he said. In 2024, 5.12 lakh pilgrims took part in the Yatra—the highest in the past 12 years. “So far, we’re seeing a reduction of around 35,000 to 40,000 registrations this year, but we expect that number to improve,” he said.
Helicopter Services Suspended: Sinha also confirmed that helicopter services have been suspended this year, citing safety concerns after past accidents. “Only around 8 percent of pilgrims used helicopters previously. This decision will not significantly affect the Yatra,” he said, reiterating that safety remains paramount.
Upgraded Infra, Healthcare: The LG highlighted that both Yatra routes—Baltal and Chandanwari-Pahalgam—have undergone major upgrades. “The paths have been widened from 4–5 feet to 12 feet. Cross-barriers and sturdy railings have been installed for additional safety,” he noted. Two fully-equipped 100-bed hospitals have been set up at Baltal and Nunwan camps. Grid power now extends to the Baltal-Holy Cave stretch, with further coverage planned. New facilities include cloakrooms, shoe racks, helmets, and free fodder for ponies. Permanent accommodations at both base camps are nearing completion. A new foot-over bridge at Nunwan has eased convoy movement and improved check-in efficiency. On the environmental front, the Yatra has achieved its “Zero Landfill” goal for the second consecutive year. Cleanliness and waste management are being jointly overseen by the Shrine Board and Rural and Urban Development Departments.
Political Unity For Peaceful Yatra: In a significant gesture of solidarity, LG Sinha later convened a high-level meeting at Raj Bhawan with leaders from across the political spectrum to review Yatra arrangements and appeal for collective support. Among those present were former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah; BJP leaders Dr. Nirmal Singh, Sat Sharma, and Kavinder Gupta; Congress leaders Ghulam Ahmad Mir and Tara Chand; NC representatives Showkat Ahmad Mir and Jagdish Singh Azad; CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami; Sajad Gani Lone of the J&K Peoples Conference; Altaf Bukhari of the J&K Apni Party; Iltija Mufti of the PDP; and Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen of the People’s Democratic Front. “All political leaders are part of the Jammu and Kashmir family,” Sinha said during the meeting. “The Amarnath Yatra is our shared socio-cultural responsibility. We must come together to welcome every pilgrim and ensure its success.” The leaders unanimously pledged their full cooperation. “The Shri AmarnathJi Yatra is deeply woven into Jammu and Kashmir’s composite culture and is vital to the livelihoods of thousands. Ensuring its smooth and secure conduct is a collective obligation,” they said in a joint statement. They also appealed to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to uphold their tradition of hospitality and actively participate in supporting the Yatra.
Condemnation Of Terror And Appeal For Peace: Condemning the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, the leaders said the incident had united the region’s political and civil society. “The widespread public condemnation of the attack, cutting across party lines, sends a strong message—violence has no place in Kashmir. The people have reaffirmed their belief in peace, harmony, and resilience,” they said.
Muharram Processions To Follow Existing Routes: On a related note, LG Sinha also confirmed that this year’s Muharram processions in Srinagar will follow the same routes as last year, ensuring stability in the region’s security and communal arrangements.
