Devotees eagerly anticipate the Amarnath Yatra, set to commence on July 3rd and conclude on August 19th, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan. Excitement has surged with the release of the first-ever live view of the Amarnath Shivling, two months ahead of the pilgrimage.
Images captured by devotees from Punjab, who gained early access to the holy cave, have further heightened anticipation for the spiritual journey to seek blessings from Baba Barfani.
The Amarnath Shrine Board has announced the official dates for the 2025 Yatra, and preparations are underway to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage. Authorities face a significant challenge this year due to unusually heavy snowfall, with drifts reaching 10 to 20 feet in some areas. Snow clearance operations are in full swing on both the Baltal and Chandanwari routes to make the paths accessible for pilgrims.
J-K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha recently reviewed the ongoing preparations at the Amarnath Yatra transit camp in Pantha Chowk, Srinagar, underscoring the administration’s commitment to facilitating the pilgrimage.
Despite the recent Pahalgam attack, the spirit of devotion remains undeterred, with over 360,000 registrations already received. This number is expected to increase significantly as the Yatra start date approaches.
Following the Pahalgam attack, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah addressed a review meeting with top officials at the Civil Secretariat. He acknowledged the adverse impact of recent incidents on the Union Territory’s tourism sector.
Touching on the broader national support for Jammu and Kashmir’s development, Abdullah shared details of his recent meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the highest level in the government of India wanted to ensure that the Pahalgam attack did not derail the process of governance and development.
“That is our responsibility that we will have to take care of,” he said.
The chief minister called for a collective effort to ensure a smooth Amarnath Yatra.
