Amarnath Yatra Witnessed Record-Breaking Turnout with Over 2 Lakh Devotees In A Single Day
Jammu and Kashmir, India, 17th July 2023: During this year’s Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir, the number of pilgrims performing the pilgrimage has significantly increased from 20,806 to 2,29,221 over the past 16 days. Despite challenging weather conditions, more than two lakh devotees visited the Holy Cave on Sunday to offer their darshan.
Authorities confirmed that the yatra has been carried out safely, with all necessary precautions in place. However, there was a sad incident in which a 53-year-old pilgrim named Urmilaben lost her life due to being struck by shooting stones while on her way to the Amarnath cave.
Despite adverse weather conditions, 20,806 pilgrims were able to smoothly and comfortably perform darshan at the Holy Cave, thanks to the support from the administration and government agencies.
Notable figures like South Indian actor Sai Pallavi Senthamarai and ace tennis player Saina Nehwal were among the devotees who participated in this year’s Amarnath Yatra, and they shared their experiences on social media.
The Jammu and Kashmir government made extensive arrangements to ensure a seamless and pleasant pilgrimage experience for the devotees. The yatra is being closely monitored by top officials at the ground level.
Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, had previously estimated that around eight to nine lakh pilgrims would participate in the 62-day-long yatra this year. The authorities have made preparations accordingly, keeping in mind the possibility of even higher numbers.
Security remains a major concern for the government during the Amarnath Yatra, as pilgrims have been targeted by terrorists in the past. During the unfortunate events of 2017, a harrowing terror attack claimed the lives of eight Hindu pilgrims. To address these concerns, Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed the security arrangements before the yatra began and directed officials to ensure its smooth and safe conduct.
Recently, the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) of Kashmir, Vijay Kumar, along with other police and CRPF officials, conducted a comprehensive security review at various points, including the Navyug Tunnel on National Highway. Based on the review, additional security measures were advised to be implemented by the police and CRPF personnel. They were also instructed to strictly adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and remain extra vigilant to ensure the safety and security of the pilgrimage is not compromised.
