Amarnath Yatra 2025: Pilgrims Arrive with Unyielding Spirit Amid Security Concerns

Devotees Gather for the Sacred Journey

Jammu: As the countdown to the Amarnath Yatra 2025 begins, devotees from various parts of India and beyond have started arriving at Saraswati Dham to secure their tickets for the pilgrimage set to commence on July 3.

In spite of recent security incidents, including a terror attack near Pahalgam, the determination of the pilgrims remains unshaken.

Many expressed their strong faith in the Indian security forces, asserting that fear would not hinder their spiritual journey.

Shakshdeep Jha, who traveled from Mumbai with a group of 15, shared his enthusiasm, stating, "I am thrilled to be here. We will proceed with the Yatra via the Pahalgam route."

When questioned about concerns following the recent attack, he confidently replied, "We have no fear. Our forces are here to protect us. As long as they are with us, we can travel anywhere without worry. I encourage everyone to come here in large numbers without fear."

Deepak Sharma from Uttar Pradesh also expressed his resolve, stating, "Despite the rain, we are excited to be here. We will collect our tickets and continue our journey through Pahalgam."

He emphasized that the significant turnout of pilgrims sends a message of unity and resilience, calling it "a slap in the face of terrorists."

Maya Kaul, another devotee, shared similar sentiments, saying, "We are a group of six and will take the Pahalgam route. We trust our forces completely and urge others to join us for the Amarnath Yatra."

Among the long lines of devotees braving the heavy rain was a group of 120 from Bihar.

A devotee from Darbhanga expressed, "We are overjoyed to be here. The arrangements are excellent. We have full faith in the Indian Army to ensure a smooth Yatra."

Kajal Wangmare from Maharashtra mentioned she had been waiting in line since 3 a.m., stating, "It’s raining, but we are just happy to be here. We anticipate a wonderful pilgrimage filled with joyful memories."

Vikramjeet from Delhi added, "We are very excited. I want to convey to everyone that there is no need to be afraid. The arrangements are great, and we are facing no issues. We trust our Army completely."

In preparation for the Yatra, security forces conducted a comprehensive mock drill along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway on Monday.

This exercise aimed to ensure the safety and readiness of both security personnel and civil administration ahead of the pilgrimage.

Buses were dispatched under full security to assess the coordination and preparedness of various security units.

The drill simulated emergency situations such as landslides and other natural disasters, focusing on quick response, evacuation, and medical assistance for stranded pilgrims.

The simulation included rescuing trapped vehicles, providing immediate first aid, and coordinating relief efforts through integrated disaster response and security teams.

Officials confirmed that the first group of pilgrims will be flagged off from the Jammu base camp on June 2, with the Yatra commencing the following day via both Pahalgam and Baltal routes.