NewzVille Desk
The second batch of 3,865 pilgrims undertaking the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra departed from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas base camp in Jammu on Friday amid elaborate security and logistical arrangements.
The pilgrims left in a convoy of 201 vehicles for the twin routes leading to the holy cave shrine in Kashmir. Of the total, 1,735 yatris proceeded via the Baltal route in 115 vehicles, while 2,130 pilgrims departed for the traditional Pahalgam route in 86 vehicles.
According to official figures, the Baltal-bound convoy comprised 1,259 male pilgrims, 335 female pilgrims, four children, 104 male sadhus and 33 female sadhus. The Pahalgam-bound convoy included 1,706 male pilgrims, 283 female pilgrims, 126 male sadhus and 15 female sadhus.
Meanwhile, devotees from different parts of the country continued to arrive in Jammu in large numbers to undertake the annual pilgrimage, with authorities ensuring smooth registration, accommodation, transportation and security arrangements.
The Shri Amarnath Yatra formally commenced on Friday from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes amid chants of “Bam Bam Bhole” and “Har Har Mahadev.” Thousands of devotees began the spiritually significant journey to the 3,880-metre-high holy cave shrine.
