Will Amarnath Yatra witness record-breaking turnout this year? Devotees count already crosses 3 lakh mark
A member of Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) assists a pilgrim during the annual Amarnath Yatra, at Baltal area, in Ganderbal district | PTI
The Amarnath Yatra has been witnessing a strong participation despite recent security concerns, with over three lakh pilgrims already performing darshan at the holy cave shrine. The massive turnout of devotees has given rise to hopes that this year’s pilgrimage could surpass the figures of 4.5 lakh and 5.12 lakh in 2024 and 2023, respectively.
The 39-day yatra started on July 3 and will conclude on August 9.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed joy over the massive turnout. In a post on X, LG Sinha said, “By the grace of Baba Amarnath Ji, the holy pilgrimage has surpassed the 3 lakh mark today. This sacred journey is a deeply enriching experience. May Baba’s blessings bring peace, strength and fulfilment to all. Har Har Mahadev.”
This year’s yatra holds particular significance in the wake of the April 22 terror attack near Pahalgam, which killed 26 tourists and led to heightened security concerns. Pahalgam is one of the two main base camps for the pilgrimage, making safety a top priority for both devotees and authorities.
In response, the administration has rolled out a tech-driven, multi-layered security grid for the pilgrimage.
This includes RFID tracking of pilgrims, drone surveillance over key stretches, facial recognition cameras, and integrated command-and-control centres for real-time monitoring.
Over 500 security bunkers have been installed across the route, and thousands of troops from CRPF, Army, and the J&K Police have been deployed to secure both the Baltal and Pahalgam routes.
Specialised mountain rescue teams, quick response squads, and medical emergency units have also been stationed at high-altitude points to ensure the safety and smooth movement of pilgrims.
The conclusion of yatra will coincide with the Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan festivals. With continued favourable weather and improved infrastructure, officials are hopeful that this year’s pilgrimage will be both peaceful and record-breaking.
Tour operators are hopeful that an impressive response to the yatra will help restore tourist confidence that was shaken by the Pahalgam terror attack.
India