Enhanced infrastructure eases Amarnath Yatra: Raman Suri seeks convenient token system for current registration

JAMMU: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Executive Member Raman Suri today lauded the significant infrastructural advancements facilitating the Shri Amarnath Yatra, while urging the government to introduce a more convenient token distribution system for current registration to alleviate the hardships faced by pilgrims standing in long queues.

The recently constructed Yatri Niwas at Baltal has ensured comfortable accommodation for pilgrims, with a current capacity to house 800 devotees. This development, coupled with ongoing expansions on the Baltal and Pahalgam routes, is set to make the pilgrimage smoother and more accessible in the coming years. “The journey to the holy Amarnath cave, once considered arduous, has become significantly easier due to enhanced infrastructure, including tent cities and improved road networks supported by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO),” said Raman Suri.

Yatri Niwas facilities have already been established in Chandrakot (Ramban) and Panthachowk (Srinagar), with additional constructions underway in Jammu, Pahalgam, and Bijbihra (Anantnag). These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to expanding facilities for pilgrims, ensuring not only comfort but also enhanced security. “The enthusiasm among pilgrims is palpable, and the development of robust infrastructure is paving the way for a safer and more convenient Yatra,” Suri added.

The expansion of Yatra routes and road construction by BRO is enabling easier vehicular access, which is expected to further boost the pilgrimage’s reach. Raman Suri expressed optimism about the future, noting that the current restrictions on children and elderly pilgrims due to the high-altitude and challenging terrain may be lifted in the coming years as infrastructure continues to improve. “With these positive changes, the Yatra is becoming more inclusive and accessible, and we hope this momentum continues,” he said.

However, Suri emphasized the need for immediate action to address the inconvenience caused by the token distribution process for current registration. “While the government has done commendable work in providing world-class infrastructure, the issue of long queues for tokens remains a significant challenge. Pilgrims are facing discomfort, standing for hours in the heat, which detracts from the spiritual experience of the Yatra,” he remarked.

Raman Suri urged the administration to introduce a streamlined, user-friendly token system, possibly through online platforms or additional counters, to ensure pilgrims can secure their tokens conveniently and without undue hardship for current registration.

“The Shri Amarnath Yatra is a sacred journey, and every effort must be made to ensure that devotees can focus on their spiritual pursuit without facing logistical challenges,” Suri concluded. He expressed confidence that the government would take swift action to address this issue, further enhancing the pilgrimage experience for millions of devotees.