SRINAGAR : Amidst chanting of ‘Bam Bam Bolay and Har Har Mahadev’, the first batch of pilgrims started ‘journey of faith’ to Holy Amarnath cave shrine in south Kashmir Himalayas from Baltal base camp early this morning. However, the pilgrimage could not be started through the traditional Pahalgam track which is under several feet of snow while efforts are being made to open it within the next few days. However, the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) has announced that those who are scheduled to undertake the pilgrimage through this traditional route till June 30 can travel via Baltal track if they desire. Official sources said the first batch of pilgrims, including women and sadhus left Baltal base camp early this morning to reach the holy cave after covering the hilly 14-km-track on foot.
‘Bum Bum Bolay’ and ‘Baba Barfani ki Jai ho’ rented in the air as the first batch started their foot journey on the track, portion of which was still under snow. The pilgrims, majority of whom have reached Baltal base camp last evening from Jammu, had night stay there (Baltal), where adequate number of tents and langers were ready to receive the pilgrims.
The entire base camp remained under unprecedented security arrangements for the past one week. Similarly, adequate number of security force personnel remained deployed on the track to provide secure atmosphere to pilgrims, undertaking the pilgrimage. The authorities have also set up medical facilities after every two kms for the pilgrims.
The two month long yatra will conclude on Rakshabandan day.
(AGENCIES)
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