LG flags off first batch of pilgrims, Yatris reach base camps in Pahalgam, Baltal

Innovative security measures like facial recognition, RFID tracking in place

Jammu Tawi, Jul 2: Amid multi-tier security cover, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday flagged off the first batch of Amarnath pilgrims numbering over 5,485, marking the beginning of this year’s pilgrimage from here.

The Lieutenant Governor extended his best wishes to all the pilgrims for a safe and blissful journey. “This sacred pilgrimage is a journey of faith and self-discovery. Wishing all spiritual seekers a safe and comfortable journey to the holy abode of Lord Shiva and a deep soul-stirring experience,” the LG said.

The Lieutenant Governor said the administration, people of Jammu and Kashmir, SASB, J&K Police, and security forces have made elaborate arrangements for the pilgrims.

More than 4,500 devotees set off to the holy Cave Shrine in the first batch for the darshan of Baba Barfani. Jammu city has come alive with a new vibrancy. The enthusiasm of pilgrims is very high.

“Undeterred by terror incidents, devotees of Bhole Baba are arriving in huge numbers, demonstrating their immense faith. I hope that this year’s Yatra will be even more historic than previous years,” LG Sinha said.

An official said that the Baltal axis convoy departed at 5:20 am, followed by the Pahalgam axis convoy at 06:04 am. “5,485 yatris in 299 vehicles, with 2,347 reached Baltal base camp and 3,138 to Nunwan base camp,” he sai, adding that 4,395 are males, 1,043 females, and 31 children, along with 16 sadhus.

The convoy includes 299 vehicles – 162 on the Baltal axis and 137 on the Pahalgam axis. The vehicle distribution includes 113 buses (48 via Baltal, 65 via Pahalgam), 42 medium motor vehicles (MMVs), and 144 light motor vehicles (LMVs),” he said.

A multi-layered security setup has been activated along the 38-day Amarnath Yatra route, ending August 09, 2025.

The official said that for the first time, facial recognition systems have been installed on both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes. “RFID tags are mandatory for all vehicles and pilgrims, enabling real-time tracking,” he said.

The Yatra route from both Pahalgam axis and Baltal axis has been declared a no-fly zone due to serious security concerns. CCTV surveillance, random vehicle checks, and a three-tier security grid are in place along highways and camps.

Reflecting the spirit of communal harmony and traditional hospitality, locals and civil society members in Kashmir warmly welcomed the first batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims.

At the Nayvug tunnel near Qazigund, young volunteers gathered to offer refreshments and extend greetings to the yatris.

Mohammad Iqbal Ahanger, a local social activist, said the people of Jammu and Kashmir take pride in hosting the pilgrims. “Kashmir is known for its hospitality. We are here to welcome and protect every yatri,” he said.

Civil society member Ahamadullah Wani said, “Through our civil society, we want to send a message of brotherhood. The Amarnath pilgrims are our guests, and we are proud to host them.”

The local gesture of warmth moved many of the pilgrims, who expressed surprise and gratitude for the hospitality.

District administrations in Kulgam and Srinagar also extended a warm welcome at Nayvug Tunnel in Qazigund and in the summer capital.

Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan, said, “There is joy all around. Members of civil society, trade bodies, apple growers, and the administration have come together to welcome the pilgrims. We wholeheartedly welcome all visitors to Jammu and Kashmir.”

Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat visited the Navyug  tunnel to take stock of the security arrangements and interacted with police personnel deployed along the Amarnath Yatra route.

Police officers, including Deputy Inspector General (DIG) South Kashmir Range, Javid Iqbal Matoo, and SSP Kulgam also received the yatris in Qazigund.

All officers on field to ensure peaceful Yatra: DGP

Srinagar, Jul 2: Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat on Wednesday said that all officers are on the ground to ensure peaceful conduct of the Amarnath Yatra.

The DGP reviewed security arrangements for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway today.

DGP Prabhat inspected the security setup at Nayvug Tunnel in Qazigund and interacted with police personnel deployed on ground. He also met the pilgrims and took firsthand stock of the arrangements in place to ensure their safety.

Speaking to reporters during his visit, the DGP said all officers are on the ground ensuring peaceful conduct of the Yatra.