Amarnath yatra suspended again, Baltal route open

Srinagar, June 17 (UNI) The holy pilgrimage to Amarnath cave shrine through traditional Pahalgam route was suspended yet again following fresh snowfall and heavy rains, making the 48-km-track slippery and dangerous for trekking.

However, 5317 yatris today left through Baltal route which remained open despite rains, official spokesman told UNI.

No yatri was allowed from Jammu for Baltal and Pahalgam this morning, he said adding once the green signal was received from the yatra officials posted at different halting points enroute the cave, pilgrims from Jammu will be allowed.

He said so far 15209 pilgrims had darshan of the self made icelingam this year and majority of them had returned to their homes through Pahalgam route alone.

He said there was fresh snowfall within the periphery of the holy shrine situated at 3952 meters above sea level.

Light snowfall was also received at Pantharni, Mahaguns and Poshpathri which was followed by heavy rains making the track from Chandanwari, the last motorable halting station to cave shrine difficult and dangerous.

Spokesman said no devotee was allowed to leave from Nunwan base camp where 2120 pilgrims are waiting for their turn to proceed towards the shrine.

He said all yatris at different halting points enroute the cave have been advised to remain there. They are safe and being looked after well, he said adding once the weather improves they will be allowed to proceed towards the shrine.

He said there are adequate arrangments made by the administration for the pilgrims at different places.

UNI BAS Mir BD1207