People in South Kashmir greeted the first group of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims with open arms on Wednesday, just weeks after a terror attack in Pahalgam left 26 people dead, many of them tourists, due to religious profiling. The 45-day-long pilgrimage is set to begin on July 3.
Locals Show Hospitality at Qazigund Tunnel
As the pilgrims traveled toward the sacred Amarnath shrine, they were warmly welcomed at the Navyug Tunnel in Qazigund. Local residents gathered at the tunnel early in the morning to receive them with flowers, smiles, and cheers.
A resident from South Kashmir told ANI, “We are happy that devotees are visiting Kashmir for the first time after the Pahalgam attack. The youth here is happy. We are glad that we got this opportunity to welcome them again.”
Another local from Dudu added, “We are happy that devotees are coming here after the Pahalgam attack. We are here at the (Navyug) tunnel to welcome them.”
A third resident also emphasized, “The devotees are coming here from all over the country. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are here to welcome them… Kashmir is known for its hospitality…”
Heightened Security Measures in Place
Meanwhile, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is on high alert. Authorities have stepped up security along National Highway 44 (NH-44) and surrounding areas.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch of pilgrims from Jammu. He praised the preparation and security measures, saying, “Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board has made excellent facilities for the Yatra. Jammu and Kashmir Police and security forces have also maintained tight security. Devotees from all over the country are here. The enthusiasm is very high. The devotees of Bholenath have neglected all the terror attacks and have reached in huge numbers. I am hopeful that this year’s Yatra would be even better than the previous ones.”
Massive Security Deployment
After the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, security forces have ramped up their presence across the Jammu region. Over 50,000 personnel, including the CRPF, Army, and Police, are guarding the Yatra routes. The area is also being monitored using CCTV cameras, drones, jammers, and facial recognition systems.
Emergency Services Ready
In addition, authorities have arranged medical teams, air ambulances, and emergency evacuation plans to ensure the safety and well-being of the pilgrims throughout the holy journey.