The first batch of 4603 pilgrims embarked on the 'spiritual' journey under 'unprecedented' security cover from Jammu-based yatri niwas in the wee hours of Friday.
The convoy of the pilgrims, comprising 231 light and heavy motor vehicles, was flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha soon after performing traditional prayers at the base camp.
The atmosphere inside the base camp was upbeat since early morning as many pilgrims from different states were seen singing praises of Lord Shiva and chanting Vedic mantras before embarking on the journey.
The Lt Governor wished all the devotees a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey and prayed for all peace, prosperity, and happiness.
May the blessings of Baba Amarnath ji bring peace, happiness and prosperity to everyone’s life,” he said.
The convoy of Amarnath pilgrims was accorded a warm welcome at Udhampur, Ramban and Anantnag before reaching the base camp.
The pilgrims were garlanded and flower petals were showered at several places before they were escorted to the base camp.
Kulgam Deputy Commissioner (DC) Athar Aamir Khan said, “We welcome all of them. There are proper arrangements in place for them.The officials said the pilgrim convoys left separately for the base camps in Baltal and Pahalgam from where they will leave for the 3,880-metre-high holy cave shrine early on Saturday.
The UT Administration has made elaborate arrangements for the safe and hassle-free pilgrimage of the devotees of Shri Amarnath Ji.
Lt-Gov Sinha is scheduled to perform 'pratham pooja' inside the holy cave shrine on day one of the yatra.
To facilitate pilgrims the Shrine Board authorities have also made elaborate arrangements for 'spot' registration to facilitate the rush of pilgrims.
According to an advisory issued by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board authorities, "It is mandatory for all the yatris to wear the RFID card issued by Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) at all times during the yatra”. “No Yatri shall be allowed to enter the yatra area without an RFID card”.
The Yatris have also been asked to wear comfortable clothes during the yatra period.
To cater to any medical emergency, hospitals equipped with emergency facilities have been set up by the DRDO at Baltal and Chandanwari base camps along the yatra route.
