'Amarnath Yatra Turnout Dropped By 10.19% Compared To Last Year,' Says LG Manoj Sinha (VIDEO)
Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha, who also serves as Chairman of the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB), reported on Thursday that over 2.36 lakh pilgrims had registered for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra before the terror incident on April 22, resulting in an overall turnout drop of 10.19% from the previous year. Nevertheless, he expressed optimism that the numbers would increase in the coming days.
“Before April 22, 2,36,801 people had registered. Following the incident, there was a slight decline, but as of yesterday, over 85,000 pilgrims have confirmed their Yatra,” LG Manoj Sinha mentioned during a press conference. He added, “I hope that the numbers will continue to rise in the coming days.”
The LG noted that last year's Yatra saw 5.12 lakh pilgrims, the highest turnout in 12 years. He also announced that helicopter services would be suspended this year due to safety concerns. “There were several accidents in the past, and safety is our top priority. That's why helicopter services are not operating this time,” he explained. Additionally, he mentioned that only 8% of pilgrims had utilized helicopter services in previous years, suggesting that the decision would not significantly impact the Yatra.
LG Sinha mentioned improvements in safety for both Yatra routes, Baltal and Chandanwari-Pahalgam, which have been widened from 4–5 feet to 12 feet. “Many vulnerable spots have been secured with cross-barriers. Previously, rainfall caused major issues on narrow paths. Now, pilgrims are giving very good feedback,” he remarked.
He also highlighted the ongoing construction of permanent accommodations at both Baltal and Nunwan camps. Though weather delays pushed back the timeline, significant portions would be ready this year. Furthermore, both base camps now boast 100-bed hospitals, with additional medical staff and doctors deployed, indicating a significant improvement in healthcare this year. Regarding sanitation, LG Sinha confirmed the achievement of the Zero Landfill target again this year. “The Shrine Board, Rural Development, and Urban Development departments are collaborating to maintain cleanliness throughout the Yatra,” he said.
The RFID-based tracking system, implemented three years ago, is in operation once more this year. “After eKYC, all pilgrims and service providers receive RFID cards. High-definition cameras are installed, and a modern command-and-control center is monitoring the Yatra 24/7,” he stated, adding that a separate police control room is operational continuously. Additionally, he noted improvements to the convoy system from Lakhanpur to Jammu and beyond, with a new foot-over bridge at the Nunwan camp addressing double-check-in issues for pilgrims.
Discussing security arrangements, LG Manoj Sinha emphasised the joint efforts of the J&K Police, Army, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). “Deployment is stronger than ever. A three-tier security system is implemented at all base camps, and all service providers have been verified,” he noted.
Assurances were made about insurance for all pilgrims and emergency response arrangements being effectively managed by the Shrine Board and administration. “We are fully prepared to handle any emergencies during the Yatra,” he said, while applauding the local people of Kashmir for their traditional hospitality. “The way locals welcome the pilgrims is unmatched anywhere in the country,” Sinha added.
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