Srinagar, July 2: An extensive security grid comprising hundreds of paramilitary companies has been deployed across Jammu and Kashmir to guard the 2026 Amarnath Yatra, which officially commenced on Thursday morning with the departure of its inaugural pilgrim convoy. The first batch, consisting of 4,822 devotees, moved out of the Jammu base camp under close escort from security forces. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the transit, which marks the start of the 57-day annual pilgrimage to the holy ice stalagmite inside the Himalayan cave shrine.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has sent nearly 650 companies of specialized personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force and the Central Industrial Security Force to oversee the route and deter any untoward incidents. Local administrative heads declared that a comprehensive safety net has been established along all transit corridors to ensure the well-being of the travelers.
“The facilities provided by the J&K Shrine Board will make the Yatra more comfortable,” BJP leader Sunil Sharma stated regarding the operational readiness. He asserted that public enthusiasm is remarkably high this year, noting that total attendance could potentially surpass previous benchmarks.
The initial vehicular fleet, which spans 259 transport units including buses, light motor vehicles, and two-wheelers, split into two separate paths according to designated destination points. The Baltal-bound group, totaling 2,312 pilgrims, cleared the gates at 6:10 am, whereas the Pahalgam contingent of 2,510 devotees started their journey at 6:35 am.
Reflecting on the profound spiritual importance of the journey, Lieutenant Governor Sinha shared his optimism for the seasonal gathering. “Every step taken on this holy path is a testament to unwavering faith and surrender to the Baba Amarnath,” the Lieutenant Governor affirmed, maintaining that the regional administration has finalized all operational arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.
