Srinagar, 11-07-2024 : Under tight security measures, a convoy of 4,885 pilgrims set off from Jammu early Thursday to the twin base camps in Kashmir for the annual Amarnath Yatra, officials reported. Escorted by CRPF personnel, the 14th batch left in 191 vehicles bound for Baltal and Pahalgam camps at 3:06 am.
Security has been bolstered following recent terror activities and ongoing operations, particularly around the Bhagwati Nagar base camp and along the yatra route. The group included 2,366 men, 1,086 women, 32 children, and 163 sadhus and sadvis, traveling in a mix of buses and light vehicles.
Of these, 2,991 pilgrims opted for the traditional 48-km Pahalgam route, while 1,894 chose the shorter 14-km Baltal route. Since June 28, a total of 77,210 pilgrims have commenced their journey from Jammu, flagged off by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha in the first batch.
The 52-day yatra, which began on June 29, will conclude on August 19, with last year witnessing over 4.5 lakh pilgrims visiting the cave shrine. Security measures have been stepped up at Jammu basecamp, lodging centers, and along the highway, including increased vehicle checks and personnel frisking to ensure safety throughout the pilgrimage.