J&K Administration Issues Fresh Traffic Advisory Ahead of Annual Amarnath Pilgrimage

Srinagar, Jun 27: The Jammu and Kashmir administration has issued a comprehensive traffic and travel advisory ahead of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026, introducing special highway regulations, convoy timings and enhanced security measures to facilitate the safe movement of pilgrims during the annual pilgrimage.

Officials said the advisory will remain effective throughout the Yatra period beginning July 3. The measures are intended to minimise congestion on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway while ensuring uninterrupted movement of pilgrim convoys.

According to the advisory, civilian traffic will face time based restrictions at the Navyug Tunnel and several important checkpoints across the Valley. Authorities have fixed cut-off timings for vehicles travelling towards both Jammu and Srinagar to prevent overlap with Yatra convoys.

Traffic Police have urged commuters, tourists and transport operators to carefully plan their journeys in advance and strictly follow official schedules to avoid inconvenience.

For the first time, authorities have expanded the use of QR code based identification cards for registered service providers, including pony operators, porters and other authorised personnel associated with the pilgrimage. The digital verification system is expected to strengthen identity management and improve overall security.

Officials said surveillance has also been upgraded through real time traffic monitoring, additional CCTV coverage and enhanced coordination between traffic police, district administration and security agencies.

Medical emergency teams, ambulances, disaster response units and highway rescue personnel have been deployed at vulnerable stretches to provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies. Special arrangements have also been made for weather monitoring, considering the unpredictable conditions in the Himalayan region.

Pilgrims have been advised to carry valid registration documents, compulsory health certificates and government-issued identity cards while travelling. Authorities have also requested visitors to cooperate during security checks and follow all instructions issued by police personnel.

Tourists visiting Kashmir during the Yatra period have been advised to remain informed about daily traffic bulletins before planning travel on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.

Officials said the comprehensive traffic management plan is designed to ensure the smooth conduct of one of India’s largest annual religious pilgrimages while minimising inconvenience to local residents and regular commuters.

The administration expressed confidence that coordinated efforts by various departments, combined with public cooperation, would help ensure a safe, orderly and successful Amarnath Yatra 2026.