Editor
NEW DELHI: In a significant development, Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level meeting in Delhi today to review the preparations for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. During the meeting, he emphasized the Narendra Modi government's commitment to ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free pilgrimage experience for the devotees.
The Home Minister directed the concerned officials to make robust security arrangements along the entire 62-day route of the Amarnath Yatra, which is set to commence on July 1 and conclude on August 31. Special attention was given to ensuring seamless arrangements from the airport and railway station to the Yatra base camp, including the provision of night air services from Srinagar and Jammu for the convenience of the pilgrims.
Amit Shah stressed the importance of adequate availability of oxygen cylinders and their refilling, along with additional teams of doctors. He further emphasized the need for an ample number of medical beds, the deployment of ambulances and helicopters, and preparedness to handle any medical emergencies that may arise during the pilgrimage.
The Home Minister instructed officials to make comprehensive arrangements for all essential facilities for the Amarnath Yatris, encompassing travel, accommodation, electricity, water, communication, and healthcare. He also emphasized the importance of an efficient communication system along the yatra route and the deployment of machinery to swiftly clear routes in case of landslides.
During the meeting, it was informed that every pilgrim participating in the Amarnath Yatra will be provided with RFID cards, enabling real-time location tracking. Additionally, each Yatri will be covered by a Rs 5 lakh insurance policy, while Rs 50,000 insurance coverage will be provided for each animal. The authorities will also arrange a tent city, Wi-Fi hotspots, and adequate lighting along the travel route.
Furthermore, arrangements will be made for online live Darshan of Baba Barfani, live telecasts of the morning and evening aarti in the holy Amarnath cave, and religious and cultural programs at the base camp.
The comprehensive review meeting underlines the government's commitment to ensuring the safety, comfort, and spiritual experience of the Amarnath Yatris. With meticulous planning and arrangements in place, the upcoming Amarnath Yatra promises to be a memorable and fulfilling journey for all devotees.