Srinagar, June 26 (UNI)J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today said that the number of pilgrims registered for the annual Amarnath Yatra has seen a slight decline compared to last year, although the situation is now showing signs of improvement.
He said that comprehensive security arrangements have been put in place by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Indian Army, and Central Armed Police Forces across all routes and base camps for the smooth pilgrimage.
Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, LG Sinha said there was a surge in registrations before April 22- the day when terrorists targeted tourists in Pahalgam killing 26 people, but a slight dip was observed afterwards.
“Before April 22, we witnessed a large number of registrations. However, after that day, the numbers dipped slightly,” he said.
Comparing this year’s figures to 2024, the LG revealed that 35,000 to 40,000 fewer pilgrims have registered so far.
“I believe the total number is 10.19% less than last year,” Sinha noted.
Despite the decline, he said the administration is optimistic as the situation has improved since.
“Till 22nd April, 2,36,801 registrations were made. We reached out to all those who had registered before April 22, asking them to confirm their participation in the Yatra. So far, over 85,000 pilgrims have confirmed that they are coming, and the number is steadily rising,” he added.
On the security front, LG Sinha assured that comprehensive arrangements have been made and the number of security personnel is more from previous years
“From a security standpoint, Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Indian Army, and the CAPFs have deployed tight measures to ensure a safe and peaceful pilgrimage across all yatra routes and base camps,” he said.
Sinha said that robust and multi-layered security arrangements have been put in place for the smooth and safe conduct of the Amarnath Yatra 2025.
“Whether it is area domination, deployment of Mountain Rescue Patrols (MRPs), or the three-tier security setup at base camps, everything has been strengthened,” he said, adding that both the number of police officers and CAPF companies has increased compared to previous years.
“I can confidently say that the forces have successfully fulfilled their responsibilities,” he stated.
The LG further informed that security at key tourist locations has also been enhanced in view of the Yatra.
“Verification of every individual associated with the Yatra—particularly service providers—has been conducted thoroughly,” he added.
He revealed that the RFID–based tracking system, introduced three years ago, is in use for all pilgrims and service providers.
“After eKYC verification, RFID cards are issued. High–definition cameras and a state–of–the–art command and control center are monitoring the Yatra 24×7, control room,” he added.
The LG informed that both the Baltal and Chandanwari–Pahalgam routes have been widened from four–five feet to 12 feet, making the paths safer for pilgrims.
Lieutenant Governor said that helicopter services will not operate during this year’s Amarnath Yatra, citing several underlying factors that led to the decision.
“After carefully considering various reasons, it has been decided that heli services will remain suspended this year,” LG Sinha said.
Highlighting steps to safeguard all stakeholders involved in the pilgrimage, LG Sinha said that the insurance coverage for pilgrims, pony owners, and porters has been arranged jointly by the Shrine Board and the administration.
“This year, all pilgrims and service providers are insured to ensure their safety and welfare,” he stated.
Appreciating the role of locals, LG Sinha said, “The warmth and hospitality shown by the people of Kashmir towards the Yatris is unmatched across the country.”
Responding to a question about Muharram processions in Srinagar, LG Sinha stated that the processions will be conducted along the same traditional routes as last year..
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