Srinagar, June 29 : Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday performed the ‘Pratham Puja’ at the Holy Cave of Shri Amarnath Ji, formally inaugurating the annual pilgrimage even as the main Yatra is set to commence from July 3.
According to news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS), LG Sinha described the occasion as a “truly blessed” moment, offering prayers to Baba Barfani for peace, prosperity and well-being of all. “The Yatra has commenced on an auspicious note amid Vedic chants,” he said, extending a warm welcome to devotees arriving from across the country and abroad.
Asserting that the administration has left no stone unturned for the smooth conduct of the 52-day pilgrimage, the LG said multiple agencies are working in “complete synergy” for the endeavour. “The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, Army, Police, Security Forces, local community, service providers and volunteers are all synergised to ensure a safe, hassle-free and memorable pilgrimage,” LG Sinha stated.
He further emphasised that “significantly upgraded infrastructure” and enhanced facilities have been put in place, while hailing the “invaluable support” of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “We are fully prepared to welcome the devotees for a spiritually fulfilling journey,” the LG added.
This year, authorities have made elaborate arrangements, including additional langar facilities, improved tracks, communication networks and medical aid posts, as the administration eyes a record number of pilgrims amid the peak summer season. Security has also been tightened across the twin routes of Pahalgam and Baltal, with multi-tier deployments to ensure incident-free Yatra. (KNS)
