The Shri Amarnath Yatra, an important pilgrimage for many Hindus, was suspended from Jammu towards Srinagar and Baltal on Sunday due to adverse weather conditions and necessary restoration work on the pilgrimage tracks. This decision aimed to ensure the safety of the pilgrims following reports of rain and potential damage to the tracks.
Officials confirmed that no fresh convoy of pilgrims was allowed to proceed from Jammu to the base camps this Sunday. The recent rainfall caused significant damage to the routes, and weather forecasts suggested continued adverse conditions in the coming days.
In a measured response, authorities permitted pilgrims who had already performed darshan at the holy cave to return to Jammu. This decision ensured that those who completed their pilgrimage could safely make their way back.
According to the Joint Police Control Room in Baltal, a total of 588 pilgrims, which included 435 men, 83 women, four children, and 66 sadhus, were traveling towards Jammu in 53 vehicles on Sunday morning. The down convoy was moving through the Ramban-Banihal sector of National Highway-44, a critical artery connecting Jammu with Srinagar.
Authorities have enacted the suspension of the pilgrimage from both the Baltal and Pahalgam routes from August 9, citing recent rains and damage to the pilgrimage tracks. The safety of the pilgrims remains the top priority for local administration and police.
The Yatra is expected to resume only after conditions improve and after the affected tracks have been deemed safe for travel. Pilgrims are advised to stay informed through official channels regarding any updates on the status of the Yatra.
