Srinagar, July 2: Amid the heavy security arrangements, the first batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims was greeted with heartfelt warmth by local residents as they entered Kashmir valley through the Navyug Tunnel early Tuesday morning.
From the very first bend of the highway near Qazigund, groups of men, women, and children stood holding trays of sweets, water bottles, and baskets of fruit. Some waved small Kashmiri and Indian flags, while others smiled and folded their hands in welcome. For many of the pilgrims, the reception came as a surprise.
“We wait for this time every year,” said Mohammad Ashraf, a local trader from Anantnag. “These pilgrims are our guests, and in Kashmir, guests are treated like family. This is more than a tradition, it’s our identity.”
The vibrant display of hospitality brought smiles and gratitude from the pilgrims, many of whom were visiting the valley for the first time. Some were seen capturing the moment on their phones, overwhelmed by the spontaneous love they received.
According to official sources, the first convoy under the Baltal route departed from Jammu at 5:20 am, followed by the Pahalgam-bound convoy at 6:04 am. This first batch of the yatra includes 5,485 pilgrims — 2,347 taking the Baltal axis and 3,138 through the scenic Pahalgam route.
Shabnum Jan, a college student from Kulgam who volunteered with a local group, shared her excitement: “We brought water bottles and fruit for the yatris. This is our way of showing that Kashmir is a land of peace and love, despite what people may hear in the news.”
To ensure the safety of the pilgrims, a layered security cover involving CRPF, J&K Police, and Army units has been deployed across the route. Drones and RFID tracking are also in place for real-time monitoring.
Yet even with the visible security presence, the dominant mood on the ground was one of celebration and unity.
Traders in Anantnag, Kulgam, and Pahalgam welcomed Amarnath Yatra pilgrims with flowers and gifts, stating that the people of the Valley have always been peace-loving.
Condemning the Pahalgam terror attack, they said no act of violence can undermine the spirit of brotherhood and the tradition of hospitality Kashmiris extend to tourists and pilgrims.
“We welcome them every year; they are our guests, and we stand with them,” said Ishfaq Ahmad, a local from Kulgam.(KNS).
