In Jammu and Kashmir all necessary arrangements, including enhanced security and accommodation for nearly 55,000 pilgrims, have been put in place for the annual Amarnath Ji Yatra, with the first batch of devotees set to leave the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu on July 2.

Akashvani reports that Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also the Chairman of the Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB), will flag off the first convoy at 4 AM. The 57-day pilgrimage will begin on July 3 via the traditional Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag and the shorter Baltal route in Ganderbal district. Comprehensive arrangements have been made for accommodation, food, sanitation, healthcare, transport and security to ensure a smooth pilgrimage.

The pilgrims must travel only via the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), and the movement on alternative routes such as the Mughal Road and Dhar Road will not be permitted for Yatra traffic. The pilgrims arriving at Lakhanpur between 6 AM and 8 AM will be escorted to Jammu, while those reaching later will have to wait due to security protocols.

Mini convoys will also operate between Udhampur and Banihal under a fixed schedule. The administration has established accommodation centres from Lakhanpur to Banihal, along with langars, temporary shelters and strengthened sanitation and medical facilities. Nearly 2,100 toilets have been installed along the Yatra route.