Sinha inaugurated this year’s pilgrimage by conducting the traditional ‘Pratham Puja’ at the revered Amarnath cave shrine. He notably became the first chairman of the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board in recent years to access the holy site via the Baltal route.
In a media briefing following the puja, Sinha remarked, “The Pratham Puja has been completed. I urge devotees to come in large numbers for the yatra, which will commence on July 3 and wrap up on Raksha Bandhan on August 9.” He highlighted that this year, the Shrine Board and the administration have significantly improved facilities for pilgrims.
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Emphasizing the extensive security measures, he stated, “The Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army, CRPF, and other CAPFs have arranged comprehensive security. Therefore, there is no need for anyone to worry; they should come and seek Baba’s blessings.”
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sinha expressed: “Har Har Mahadev! I offered my respects to Baba Barfani and conducted the ‘Pratham Puja’ at the Holy Cave, marking the ceremonial start of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. May Baba Amarnathji continue to bless us all.”
He further acknowledged the collective efforts behind the pilgrimage: “The invaluable contributions from the people of J&K, Civil Society, and all service providers have been truly remarkable. I firmly believe that enhancements to facilities and services will make this year’s pilgrimage memorable and spiritually enriching for all devotees.”
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During his visit, Sinha evaluated preparations along the Baltal axis, inspecting ongoing improvements in tracks and infrastructure. He instructed officials to ensure that all development works are completed on time to enhance the pilgrim experience.
Post the 2024 yatra, the administration has prioritized route safety. Sinha remarked, “The alternate route from Chandanwari to Pissutop will include a safety handrail and resurfacing to support on-foot yatris and to better manage the yatra along the Chandanwari axis.”
Officials noted that handrails have already been placed on vulnerable sections of the Pahalgam route. Moreover, retaining walls and wire mesh have been installed to combat falling stones, while interlocking concrete block (ILCB) tiles have been laid on slippery areas.
The Lieutenant Governor also visited the Baltal Base Camp Hospital to evaluate medical readiness. He directed that sufficient medical personnel be deployed and essential supplies like medicines, equipment, oxygen cylinders, and 24/7 care facilities be stocked adequately.
The 38-day yatra will begin simultaneously from the Baltal and Pahalgam routes in Anantnag district of south Kashmir on July 3 and will conclude on August 9.
