Amarnath yatra will continue despite light rains in 2024, road upto lower holy cave constructed: Div Com

Says footfall of tourists highest-ever this year, will increase once trains services begin, no need to panic on new variant of Covid, will ensure better preparations this winter, dons traditional Pheran to participate in ‘Int’l Pheran Day’

Srinagar, Dec 21: The government on Thursday said that the road upto lower holy cave of Shri Amarnath Ji has been completed, which will be used for emergency cases only and that the highest number of tourists have visited the Union Territory this year and the flow is expected to increase after the train services are started.

Talking to reporters here at Kashmir Haat, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said that the road construction upto lower holy cave has been completed, it will be for the emergency cases only.

“We are taking measures to ensure that the pilgrims will not face any hardships. As the road has been completed, several other measures have been taken and thus simultaneously, the pilgrimage will continue next year even if the light rains occur,” he said.

He further stated that the administration has constructed keeping in view the ecological balance and there will be no impact on it.

Furthermore, the Divisional Commissioner has stated that the snow clearance work and other related things has been furthered as the administration is committed to ensure better preparations during this winter.

About the new variant of Covid-19, Bidhuri stated that the government is cautious about it and there was no need to panic. “We have already held a high-level meeting in this regard. There is no need to panic, but the people need to take precautions,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Divisional Commissioner also said that the highest number of tourist arrivals have been recorded this year. “We expect the number to go up once the train services are started. I am happy to see the people earning their livelihood through homestays and other things,” he said.

Moreover, Bidhuri, participated in the celebrations of International Pheran Day while inaugurating Jashne Chilai Kalaan at Kashmir Haat in Srinagar.

He expressed pride in the cultural heritage embodied by the Pheran, marking this occasion as International Pheran Day.

Speaking to the media here, Bidhuri said, “Pheran is a proud and traditional dress and today on this occasion, I would like to congratulate everyone on this day.”

“The beauty of Kashmir Valley gets enhanced in winter and today we are welcoming Chillai Kalan on the occasion of International Pheran Day,” he said.

Divisional Commissioner also wore the Pheran, joining locals in celebrating this significant tradition—(KNO)