Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made for the Yatra and describing it as safe, well-managed, and beneficial for Jammu and Kashmir’s economy.
Speaking to reporters after reviewing facilities at the Baltal base camp, the Lieutenant Governor said the Jammu and Kashmir Administration, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, J&K Police, Army, CAPFs and all stakeholder departments have worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth and secure pilgrimage for devotees.
“Every department, including the administration, police, Army and security forces, has made every possible effort to ensure that the Yatra remains safe and comfortable,” he said.
Sinha noted that compared to previous years, a significantly higher number of devotees had arrived without prior registration but were still able to undertake the pilgrimage peacefully due to effective management. He said the administration is making every effort to provide pilgrims with a pleasant and memorable spiritual experience.
The LG also highlighted the economic significance of the annual pilgrimage, saying it provides substantial livelihood opportunities to thousands of people across Jammu and Kashmir.
“The religious importance of the Yatra is immense, but it also provides major support to the local economy. Pilgrims purchase local products, stay in hotels, hire vehicles, and thousands of people associated with tents, ponies and other services earn their livelihood through this pilgrimage,” he said.
During his visit, Sinha inspected accommodation facilities at the Baltal base camp and expressed satisfaction over the arrangements. He said every tent has been equipped with fire extinguishers, and safety measures are being strictly monitored by officials on duty.
“I personally inspected the tents and found the arrangements to be very good. Adequate attention has been given to safety, with fire extinguishers installed in every tent. From the perspective of overall management, this will be considered a well-organised pilgrimage,” he said.
Reviewing healthcare facilities, the Lieutenant Governor said two hospitals—one each at Baltal and Chandanwari—have been functioning efficiently over the past three years and are playing a vital role in providing medical assistance to pilgrims.
He said the hospitals are handling around 1,300 to 1,400 outpatient cases daily, while a few patients requiring admission, including those suffering from high-altitude sickness and other ailments, are receiving timely treatment.
Issuing an advisory to pilgrims, Sinha urged devotees to strictly follow the guidelines issued by the government and the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board. He assured that the administration remains fully prepared to assist pilgrims at every stage of the journey.
He also cautioned devotees against individuals attempting to mislead or overcharge pilgrims, stating that rates for all services have been officially fixed.
“If anyone demands charges beyond the approved rates, pilgrims should immediately report the matter to the Camp Director or the police. Strict action will be taken against anyone found violating the rules,” he said.
