Breaking News: First Batch Departs for Amarnath Yatra Amid High Alert and Unshaken Devotion | ABP NEWS

The first batch of pilgrims has set off from Jammu for the annual Amarnath Yatra, marking the beginning of a deeply revered journey to the holy Amarnath cave. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the yatra from the Jammu base camp. This year, the pilgrimage holds added significance as it is being conducted in the aftermath of a terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April. Due to heightened security concerns, unprecedented arrangements have been made, with surveillance from both land and air across the entire route. The pilgrimage will last for 38 days, and the first group of devotees departed in 146 vehicles under tight security. Pilgrims are full of energy, chanting “Har Har Mahadev” and “Bam Bam Bhole,” eager to witness the sacred ice lingam of Lord Shiva. Two main routes—via Baltal and Pahalgam—are heavily guarded. Army convoys and checkpoint screenings have been intensified to prevent any untoward incidents. Despite the earlier attack, devotees like Suman Ghosh from Kolkata remained undeterred, showing immense faith and spirit. Over 3.36 lakh registrations were recorded initially, and although the number dropped post-attack, authorities expect large turnout due to improved security and renewed enthusiasm.

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