Jammu & Kashmir, the annual Amarnath Yatra was temporarily suspended on Nunwan Pahalgam route in south Kashmir due to overnight heavy rainfall and the inclement weather forecast.

However, the Yatra by foot and on Palkis (wooden carrying cot) was allowed from Baltal Sonamarg Base Camp in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district this afternoon.

Joint Police Control Room officials at Pahalgam Base Camp told   that continuous rainfall led to the slippery road condition that was declared unsafe for the pilgrims to traverse the difficult mountainous route from Nunwan Pahalgam Base Camp in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.

They said the Yatra will be resumed only after assessment of the weather and road conditions along the route. . Adequate arrangements have been put in place to ensure smooth conduct of Amarnath Yatra.

Lakhs of people are expected to pay obeisance at the holy Amarnath Cave Shrine this year that is situated in the Himalayan mountain range nearly 14,000 feet above the sea level in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The Yatra will conclude on 26 August on the day of Shravan Purnima.

Last evening, first batch of nearly 3000 Yatris from Jammu base Camp reached both Baltal and Pahalgam base camps safely through 300 Km Srinagar Jammu national highway.

Our correspondent reports that the 60 day annual Yatra formally commenced today late due to bad weather. The traditional Pratham Puja was performed at the Holy Cave. Governor N N Vohra who is also Chairman of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, flew in a helicopter to participate in the Puja and paid obeisance at the holy cave.

Over 2 Lakh 12 thousand pilgrims have secured Advance Registration till now for Yatra. Meteorological department predicted rainfall for next two to three days all over the state. Authorities are monitoring weather advisory and accordingly taking adequate measures to ensure smooth, safe and hassle free Yatra.