The Shri Amarnath Yatra faced suspension from Jammu to both Srinagar and Baltal on Sunday due to adverse weather conditions and ongoing restoration work on pilgrimage tracks. Authorities emphasize safety concerns as rainfall has affected the journey significantly.
Officials confirmed that they prohibited any new convoy of pilgrims from departing Jammu towards the base camps. This decision followed the recent heavy rainfall, which has damaged tracks and brought forecasts of further inclement weather.
However, pilgrims who completed their darshan at the revered Amarnath cave can return to Jammu. According to reports from the Joint Police Control Room in Baltal, a total of 588 pilgrims, including 435 men, 83 women, four children, and 66 sadhus, were safely traveling towards Jammu in 53 vehicles on Sunday morning.
The down convoy progressed through the Ramban-Banihal sector of National Highway-44 at the last report. Fortunately, all vehicles moved cautiously to avoid any mishaps due to the track conditions.
Authorities decided to suspend the Yatra from both the Baltal and Pahalgam routes starting August 9. This precautionary measure aims to protect devotees from potential risks posed by adverse weather, damaged tracks, and forecasts of further unfavourable conditions.
The pilgrimage aims for a resumption only once the weather improves and the affected tracks regain safety approval for movement. Kindly monitor official communications for updates regarding the reopening of the routes, as safety remains a priority during these challenging conditions.
