RAJOURI/POONCH: The first batch of pilgrims undertaking the annual Shri Baba Budha Amarnath Ji Yatra was accorded a warm reception in Rajouri and Poonch on Monday as the annual pilgrimage commenced amid elaborate arrangements by the district administrations.
In Rajouri, the first batch of 2,041 pilgrims was received at the Yatra Ground by Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma. The batch comprised 1,013 men, 1,000 women, 26 children and two sadhus, who arrived in a convoy of 50 vehicles, including 42 buses, one medium motor vehicle and seven light motor vehicles.
Attal Peethadeshwar Shri Shri 1008 Swami Vishwatma Nand Saraswati Ji Maharaj was also present and blessed the pilgrims.
Prior to their arrival, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed arrangements at the transit camp, including drinking water, power supply, sanitation, toilet facilities, langar services, medical care and security. He directed departments to ensure uninterrupted availability of all essential facilities during the yatra period.
Meanwhile, in Poonch, the first batch of yatris was welcomed at the Yatra Base Camp at College Ground by the district administration, Yatra Management Committee members, civil society representatives and local residents.
Deputy Commissioner Poonch Ashok Kumar Sharma, DIG Rajouri-Poonch Range Sandeep Wazir, Senior Superintendent of Police Shafket Hussain Bhat and other civil and police officers were present on the occasion.
More than 2,000 pilgrims reached Poonch in the first batch, marking the formal commencement of the annual pilgrimage.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner said comprehensive arrangements had been put in place to facilitate pilgrims throughout the yatra and reiterated the administration’s commitment to ensuring its smooth conduct.
Officials said the yatra will continue for nearly 10 days and culminate with the traditional Chhari Mubarak procession from Poonch to the Shri Budha Amarnath Ji shrine in Mandi.
