14-07-2023 : A fresh batch of 7,245 pilgrims embarked on their journey to the revered Shri Amarnath Cave Shrine from the Bhagwati Nagar Base Camp in Jammu. Amidst the resonating chants of ‘Bam Bam Bhole,’ the pilgrims began their pilgrimage on Friday. The yatra, which had been temporarily suspended for three days, resumed from Jammu on Tuesday.
The temporary suspension of the yatra was due to the necessary repair work being carried out on the roads that were damaged by heavy rains in Ramban along the Jammu-Srinagar national highway.
The batch of 7,245 pilgrims, traveling in a convoy of 226 vehicles, left the base camp, with 4,101 pilgrims heading towards Pahalgam in a convoy of 125 vehicles, and 3,144 pilgrims journeying towards Baltal in a convoy of 101 vehicles. The security arrangements were tight to ensure the safety of the pilgrims throughout their journey.
The Deputy Commissioner of Ramban expressed a warm welcome to the pilgrims as they arrived at SASB Yatri Niwas in Chanderkote. The pilgrims’ safe arrival was acknowledged on social media, spreading positivity and reassurance among the yatra participants.
The previous day, a total of 16,061 Shri Amarnathji Yatris visited the Holy Cave and had the opportunity to perform darshan (pay homage). With this, the overall number of pilgrims who have paid obeisance during this season reached 1,62,569. Among the pilgrims who visited the Holy Cave, there were 12,701 males, 2,945 females, 236 children, 176 Sadhus (male holy men), and 3 Sadvis (female holy women).
The yatra has been progressing smoothly since its commencement on July 1, with the pilgrims benefiting from the general facilities provided by the government. These facilities ensure the convenience and comfort of the pilgrims during their arduous journey.
The pilgrimage to the Shri Amarnath Cave Shrine holds immense significance for devotees, who undertake the challenging trek to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The government and authorities concerned have been diligently working to ensure the safety and well-being of the pilgrims, implementing necessary measures and arrangements along the pilgrimage route.