SRINAGAR: The Shri Amarnathji Yatra has been temporarily suspended from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes with effect from July 19 as a precautionary measure following the India Meteorological Department’s forecast of inclement weather, the Jammu and Kashmir administration announced on Saturday.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg said the decision had been taken to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims in view of the adverse weather forecast over the coming days.
According to the order, no onward movement of pilgrims will be permitted from the Baltal and Nunwan/Chandanwari base camps from July 19 until further orders.
The administration said the Yatra will resume only after a comprehensive assessment of weather conditions and confirmation that the routes are safe for pilgrims. Fresh updates regarding the resumption of the pilgrimage will be issued in due course.
The temporary suspension comes as the Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rainfall in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, raising the possibility of flash floods, landslides and other weather-related hazards.
Meanwhile, officials said that more than 3.7 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance at the Holy Cave Shrine since the commencement of the ongoing Shri Amarnathji Yatra.
