Baba Budha Amarnath Yatra Begins with 700 Pilgrims, Ensured by Tight Security Measures
On Wednesday night, the first group of 700 pilgrims for the Baba Budha Amarnath Yatra reached Poonch. This significant pilgrimage, dedicated to Lord Shiva at the Budha Amarnath Temple in Rajpura village, Loran valley, commenced on Wednesday and will conclude on Sawan Purnima, which coincides with Raksha Bandhan this month.
Budha Amarnath is one of the oldest shrines in the Jammu region, attracting numerous devotees during this annual Yatra. The pilgrimage was officially flagged off by Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, and Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Jammu, Anand Jain, from Yatra Niwas in Jammu.
Balwan Singh Thakur, a pilgrim from Madhya Pradesh, expressed his satisfaction, saying, “We are happy and there is no tension among us. The people and the army are with us, providing all kinds of help.”
Nearly 700 pilgrims, primarily from Karnataka, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh, are participating in the pilgrimage, which started on August 7 and will conclude on August 20. The Budha Amarnath temple, situated in the Poonch district of Jammu, remains a focal point for devotees.
Due to recent terrorist activities in the Poonch and Rajouri areas, security measures have been intensified. Despite the heightened security, pilgrims expressed excitement and confidence, noting that the forces have made excellent arrangements for their safety.
Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, stated, “The Budha Amarnath Yatra starts from Jammu every year. All arrangements have been made for the pilgrims. The Jammu & Kashmir police and Indian army are ensuring everything runs smoothly. Almost 700 pilgrims are participating in the Yatra.”
ADGP Jammu and Kashmir, Anand Jain, confirmed the extensive security arrangements, adding, “Tight security has been ensured for the Yatra, along with food and stay arrangements throughout the journey.”
The Yatra, a blend of spirituality and tradition, continues to draw devotees under the vigilant watch of the security forces, ensuring a safe and fulfilling experience for all participants. (ANI)
