G’bal: The 17th edition of the annual Gangbal Yatra, often described as the “Kailash of Kashmir”, was formally flagged off on Saturday from Naranag in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.
Hundreds of pilgrims are undertaking the spiritual journey to the sacred Gangbal Lake, located at an altitude of 14,500 feet in the Harmukh mountain range.
The pilgrimage, which was revived in 2009 after remaining suspended for nearly one-and-a-half centuries, is organised by the Harmukh Ganga Gangbal Trust (HGGT) under the leadership of Vinod Pandit. Since its revival, the yatra has been held every year without a break.
The flag-off was marked by the traditional Charri Pooja at Naranag, which was attended by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, SSP Ganderbal, officers of 2 Assam Rifles, CRPF, and SDM Kangan.
In his address, Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg commended the local community for their continued support in reviving and sustaining the yatra. He appreciated the seamless coordination of police, Army, CRPF, and civil administration in ensuring safe and smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. Garg extended his greetings to the devotees and acknowledged the efforts of the security personnel, particularly the Army contingent at Tringpul.
The organisers have arranged free facilities for the pilgrims including langar (community kitchens), sleeping bags, pony services, registration, and the presence of priests at the Gangbal Lake. The arrangements have been made with the active assistance of the district administration and security agencies.
Expressing gratitude, the organisers lauded the cooperation extended by the civil administration, security forces, and residents of Naranag in making the yatra successful.
