The ongoing Amarnath Yatra has witnessed remarkable participation with over 3.38 lakh devotees having performed the pilgrimage so far.
On Wednesday, an additional group of 3,740 pilgrims set off for Kashmir, demonstrating enduring spiritual zeal despite rigorous security protocols.
The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), which oversees the Yatra’s operations, reported that since the pilgrimage began on 29 June, thousands of devotees have been able to have ‘darshan’ inside the revered cave shrine.
SASB officials noted, “Today, 3,740 Yatris departed from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu.”
“The first convoy, consisting of 1,435 Yatris in 55 vehicles, headed for the Baltal base camp in North Kashmir at 3:05 AM, while the second convoy, with 2,305 Yatris in 72 vehicles, left at 3:55 AM for the Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp in South Kashmir,” the official added.
This year, authorities have introduced a pioneering ‘Pony Ambulance Service’ to address health emergencies among pilgrims.
This service, deployed on both the Baltal and Pahalgam routes, utilizes ponies to transport sick pilgrims, primarily those affected by high-altitude sickness or other health issues, to medical facilities.
Health department officials have praised the effectiveness of this service, which has treated 1,200 patients since the Yatra began.
The mobile health teams, comprising doctors and paramedics, have ensured timely medical attention, potentially saving many lives.
Amarnath Yatra: The Sacred Journey
The Amarnath cave shrine, nestled at an altitude of 3,888 meters in the Kashmir Himalayas, houses a natural ice stalagmite.
This formation, believed to symbolize the powers of Lord Shiva, draws devotees from across the country.
The cave can be accessed via two primary routes: the traditional 48 km Pahalgam route, which takes 4-5 days to traverse, and the shorter 14 km Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the journey in a day.
This year’s Yatra is likely to conclude on 29 August, coinciding with the Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan festivals.
The pilgrimage, spanning 52 days, continues to be a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the devotees undertaking this sacred journey.
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