Kashmir Impulse Desk

Pahalgam, May 30

Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Anshul Garg said on Saturday this year’s Amarnath Yatra is expected to witness a record number of pilgrims, citing strong registration numbers ahead of the annual pilgrimage.

“The response to registration for the yatra has been encouraging, and we expect a record number of yatris to visit the cave shrine to pay obeisance,” Garg told reporters in Pahalgam after reviewing arrangements for the pilgrimage.

The 57-day pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave shrine is scheduled to begin on July 3 and conclude on August 28.

“The Pratham Puja will be held on June 29,” he said.

Garg appealed to residents of Pahalgam and other areas along the yatra route to continue their tradition of hospitality towards pilgrims, saying local support remained central to the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.

“The people of Pahalgam have always welcomed visitors. Their support and hospitality are vital for both the yatra and the tourism sector,” he said.

He said the return of tourists to Pahalgam was a positive sign and reflected improving footfall in the tourist resort despite traffic-related constraints.

“Our visit was aimed at reviewing arrangements and gathering feedback to improve services,” Garg said, adding that suggestions received from stakeholders and service providers were being examined for implementation.

Earlier in the day, the divisional commissioner chaired a high-level review meeting to assess preparedness for the yatra.

Senior civil and police officers, representatives of line departments and district officials attended the meeting, where arrangements related to security, traffic management, healthcare, sanitation, accommodation, electricity and water supply, and emergency response were reviewed.

Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat briefed the meeting on preparations by the district administration, including infrastructure works, lodging facilities, sanitation measures and medical arrangements for pilgrims.

Garg directed all departments to complete pending works well before the start of the yatra and stressed the need for close coordination among all agencies involved.

He said every effort should be made to ensure a safe, comfortable and hassle-free pilgrimage for devotees visiting the shrine.

Officials informed the meeting that preparations were progressing on schedule and that all necessary measures were being taken on priority to ensure smooth conduct of the yatra.

Garg said coordinated efforts by the administration, service providers and residents would help ensure the successful conduct of the pilgrimage across Kashmir.