SRINAGAR, June 26: Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha said that over 2.36 lakh pilgrims had registered for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra before the April 22 incident, and the overall turnout has seen a 10.19% drop compared to last year but as of yesterday, over 85,000 pilgrims have confirmed their Yatra.
But, he expressed hope that the number would rise again in the coming days.
The LG said last year’s Yatra had seen 5.12 lakh pilgrims, the highest in 12 years. LG said that helicopter services have been suspended this year due to safety and security concerns & he informed that only 8% of pilgrims used helicopter services in previous years, so this decision won’t affect the Yatra in a major way.
LG Sinha said permanent accommodations are being constructed at both Baltal and Nunwan camps, and though weather delayed the work for a few days, major portions will be ready this year.
LG Manoj Sinha said that there’s a big improvement in healthcare this year & RFID-based tracking system, launched three years ago, is being used again this year.
LG Manoj Sinha said that the J&K Police, Army, and Central Armed Police Forces are working jointly & the deployment is stronger than ever because a three-tier security system is in place at all base camps, and all service providers have been verified.
Sinha said that insurance for all pilgrims and emergency response arrangements are fully in place through the Shrine Board and administration & we are fully prepared to handle any emergency during the Yatra.(KNS)
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