'Amarnath Yatra feels incomplete without Army': Pilgrims praise security, selfie point at Banihal
Banihal, July 5
Pilgrims undertaking the ongoing Amarnath Yatra on Sunday expressed appreciation for the arrangements made by security forces, particularly after the Indian Army and the CRPF set up a dedicated selfie point at the Lamber Yatra Camp in Banihal in Ramban district, en route to Kashmir, which has become a popular stop for devotees.
Speaking to IANS, an Amarnath pilgrim said, "We can see that the Army has set up a selfie point here, which is a wonderful initiative. People are enjoying taking selfies here and expressing their support for the Army. The Amarnath Yatra feels incomplete without the Army..."
Another pilgrim, who has been undertaking the pilgrimage for the past 15 years, also praised the security arrangements and facilities provided along the route.
"I have been coming here for the past 15 years. I always feel good here and never feel insecure because of the presence of the Army and the facilities provided for pilgrims. Just as we enjoy visiting other places, we also enjoy every moment of this journey. The selfie point set up here is a wonderful initiative, and it reminds us how much the Army does to ensure our safety. The Yatra is conducted every year with proper security arrangements and regulations...," the pilgrim said.
Officials said the selfie point set up by the Indian Army and the CRPF at the Lamber Yatra Camp has been designed as part of outreach efforts to engage with pilgrims and highlight the role of security forces in ensuring a safe pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra continues to witness heavy footfall, with authorities reporting that over 32,000 devotees have already performed 'darshan' at the holy cave in the past two days.
According to official data, 20,145 yatris undertook the pilgrimage by Saturday evening, while a total of 32,485 pilgrims have had 'darshan' since the Yatra began on July 3.
Weather conditions along both the traditional Pahalgam and Baltal routes remained dry and partially cloudy, allowing smooth movement of pilgrims along the tracks. Thousands of devotees continue to stay at various transit camps, including Nunwan, Chandanwari, Sheshnag, Panchtarni and Baltal en route to the holy cave.
The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) and the Union Territory administration have put in place elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Yatra, including medical facilities at Nunwan and Baltal, along with extensive security deployment.
Officials said foolproof security arrangements have been established along both routes to prevent any untoward incident and ensure the safety of pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Ek baat hai ki yatra mein security ka role biggest hai. Lekin kya sach mein selfie point kitna zaroori hai? Thoda over-the-top lag raha hai. Army ko respect hai, par is tarah ka marketing thoda zyada nahi ho raha? Just my two cents.
15 saal se aa rahe hain bhai log, aur aaj bhi pura arrange perfect hai. Army aur CRPF ka commitment dekhne milta hai. Selfie point toh ek taraf, unki safety ka josh hi alag hai. Jai Mata Di!
Very heartwarming to see this bond between the pilgrims and the security forces. The selfie point is a clever way to build trust and morale. India's diverse heritage deserves such careful protection.
Bahut accha hai ki pilgrims ko insecurity nahi hoti. Lekin ek sawaal: kya ye selfie point sirf photos ke liye hai ya safety awareness bhi promote karta hai? Agar haan, toh brilliant initiative.
Impressive numbers — 32,000+ darshan in two days and smooth movement despite weather. The Indian security forces deserve every bit of praise for making this possible. A lesson in coordination for the world.
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