Record yatri footfall expected: Divisional Commissioner

Pahalgam, May 30: Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Anshul Garg on Saturday said this year’s Amarnath Yatra is expected to witness a record turnout of yatris, as registrations for the annual yatra continue to draw an encouraging response.

“The response to registration for the yatra has been encouraging and we expect a record number of yatris to visit the cave shrine to pay obeisance,” Garg told reporters here after reviewing yatra arrangements.
The 57-day yatra will commence on July 3 and conclude on August 28.

“The Pratham Puja will be held on June 29,” he said.
Appealing to residents of Pahalgam and other yatra-route areas to extend their traditional hospitality to yatris, Garg said local cooperation had always been crucial to the successful conduct of the yatra.

“The people of Pahalgam have always welcomed visitors. Their support and hospitality are vital for both the yatra and the tourism sector,” he said.
Garg said the return of tourists to Pahalgam was a positive sign and reflected growing footfall in the resort despite traffic-related challenges.
“Our visit was aimed at reviewing arrangements and gathering feedback to improve services,” he said, adding that suggestions received from all stake- holders and service providers were being examined for implementation.

Earlier in the day, the Divisional Commissioner chaired a high-level review meeting to assess preparedness for the annual Amarnath Yatra.
Senior civil and police officers, representatives of line departments and district officials attended the meeting, where arrangements related to security, traffic regulation, healthcare, sanitation, accommodation, power and water supply, and emergency response were reviewed.
Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat briefed the meeting on the district administration’s preparations, including infrastructure works, lodging facilities, sanitation measures, and medical arrangements being put in place for pilgrims.

Garg directed all departments to complete pending works well before the commencement of the yatra and stressed the need for close coordination among agencies involved in the pilgrimage.

He said every effort should be made to ensure a safe, comfortable and hassle-free experience for the yatris visiting the cave shrine.
Officials informed the meeting that preparations were progressing according to schedule and that all required measures were being taken on priority to ensure the smooth conduct of the yatra.

Garg expressed confidence that coordinated efforts by the administration, service providers, and local residents would help ensure the successful conduct of the yatra across Kashmir.