The Shri Amarnath Yatra faced suspension from Jammu to Srinagar and Baltal on Sunday due to adverse weather conditions and needed restoration work on pilgrimage tracks. Authorities acted swiftly following heavy rainfall that damaged vital paths, coupled with forecasts indicating further inclement weather.
Officials confirmed that no new convoys of pilgrims would proceed from Jammu towards base camps. However, pilgrims returning from their darshan at the holy cave received permission to head back to Jammu.
The Joint Police Control Room in Baltal reported that on Sunday morning, 588 pilgrims were headed towards Jammu. This included 435 men, 83 women, four children, and 66 sadhus, all traveling in 53 vehicles.
The down convoy navigated through the Ramban-Banihal sector along National Highway-44 en route to Jammu when the latest updates were gathered.
Authorities enforced a suspension of the Yatra from both the Baltal and Pahalgam routes beginning August 9. The decision stemmed from recent rainfalls, track damages, and anticipated unfavorable weather conditions.
The Amarnath Yatra is a highly revered pilgrimage for thousands of devotees each year, leading to the sacred Amarnath Cave, which houses an ice Shiva Linga formed naturally. Given the unpredictable nature of the weather, safety remains paramount for both pilgrims and rescue operations.
The Yatra, which usually sees a large number of pilgrims, now faces uncertainty regarding its resumption. Authorities will lift the suspension only after ensuring that conditions improve and the paths are certified safe for movement.
The safety and well-being of pilgrims remain the priority, and officials are continually assessing the situation. They urge all devotees to remain updated through official channels regarding any changes in Yatra schedules.
