Oxygen booths, medical camps, and tent cities prepared on Baltal and Pahalgam tracks
New Delhi: Enthusiasm among pilgrims is hardly concealed, with preparations for the 2025 Amarnath Yatra almost over. The initial batch of pilgrims will leave from Jammu on July 2, led off by the Lieutenant Governor. All final preparations have been organized for the holy pilgrimage, with tracks from Pahalgam and Baltal, leading to the holy Amarnath cave, completely repaired and provided with new railings.
For providing comfort and protection to the pilgrims, the government has established necessary facilities like drinking water, electricity, toilets, bathing areas, and medical support along the routes. Permanent tent facilities have been established at the major places like Baltal and Nunwan, while shop sheds have already been made operational. Langar (community kitchen) facilities have also been organized in different camps along the way.
In a major health and safety initiative, 26 oxygen booths have been installed—16 on the Baltal route and 10 along Pahalgam. Additionally, 50 medical stations, including base hospitals and mobile camps, are operational to provide round-the-clock care.
The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, together with the local administration, has put in place stringent safety measures. RFID cards have been made compulsory for all pilgrims, security staff, langar volunteers, and service providers so that their movement can be tracked and managed efficiently. Sanitation staff have been positioned at all camps, and langar organizers have been asked to maintain sanitation standards.
Camp commanders and other directors have commandeered their respective camps. In a major decision, the entire yatra route has been announced a “no-fly zone,” i.e., no helicopter services this year.
The Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu will be open for pilgrims from July 1, and the Pantha Chowk Yatri Niwas in Srinagar is almost ready and will start receiving pilgrims shortly.
The first darshan at the holy cave is planned for July 3, and senior officials of the Shrine Board, administration, and security personnel will attend the same. The yatra is for 38 days and ends on August 9, which coincides with Raksha Bandhan.
For others who have not registered earlier, on-the-spot/current registration will be facilitated, with special arrangements to cater to them. Pilgrims from all over the nation are likely to begin reaching Jammu, Baltal, and Pahalgam from July 1 onwards.
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