In the early hours of July 8, a wave of devotion have swept over Jammu as over 7,500 pilgrims have embarked on the Amarnath Yatra, shielded by a multi-tier security that reflects both the sanctity and sensitivity throughout this spiritual journey.
The seventh batch of pilgrims—comprising 5,516 men and 1,765 women
They have set off from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp with a convoy of 309 vehicles, heading toward the twin base camps in Kashmir. Their destination is the 3,880-meter-high cave shrine of Amarnath which is in depth Himalayas of South Kashmir.
This year there were 38-day pilgrimage
They started on July 3 and have concluded on August 9, they had already seen over 94,000 devotees pay obeisance at the shrine. Thousands more are arriving daily for their on-the-spot registration. Authorities have responded equally by increasing the registration counters and daily quotas to accommodate with the surge.
Security detail
To counter recent threats, the government has bolstered security for the Amarnath Yatra with 180+ CAPF companies—30 more than last year—featuring women commandos, bulletproof vehicles, drones, RFID tracking, and continuous patrols by Quick Action Teams, bomb squads, and K9 units along NH44 and pilgrimage routes.
Even Dal Lake is also being observed under “Operation Dal” to ensure the safety for the pilgrimage path.
Pilgrims are traveling on two main routes
The 48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam trail and second one 14-km Baltal path, each one is offering its own blend of challenges . Despite of these the steep climbs and unpredictable weather, their spirits always remain high. “This is my 14th Yatra,” said by a devotee from Punjab. “The arrangements is improving every year.
Local communities have also stepped up
Greeting all the pilgrims with flowers, refreshments, and heartfelt prayers. Civil society groups like the Pahalgam Alliance have been fostering a sense of unity and peace. “Let’s walk together in brotherhood,” said Mushtaq Pahalgami, a community leader.
Medical facilities is also expanded
With over 100-bed in hospitals, mobile health units, and emergency response of teams all have started along the route. Pilgrims are advised to wear trekking shoes, avoid plastic, and follow all the health guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful journey.
As the Yatra continues
The collective effort from the security forces, local volunteers, and government agencies stands as a India’s commitment for preserving both faith and safety. For the thousands walking toward the sacred cave, each step is not just a physical ascent—but also a spiritual one.
