Amarnath Yatra: Helicopter service canceled for the second consecutive year in view of security

Jammu, June 2. Devotees will once again not be able to avail the benefit of helicopter service during Amarnath Yatra. Citing security reasons, the administration has decided not to allow helicopter operations on the Yatra routes for the second consecutive year. While this decision has given relief to the security agencies, disappointment is also being seen among the elderly, disabled and devotees suffering from health related problems.

It is noteworthy that Amarnath Yatra is considered one of the most important religious pilgrimages of the country. Every year lakhs of devotees reach the holy Amarnath cave in South Kashmir. Traditionally devotees travel through two major routes – Pahalgam and Baltal. Over the years, a large number of devotees have been using helicopter services to save time and physical labour. This service was considered quite convenient, especially for elderly and unwell passengers.

However, considering the security scenario in the last few years, the administration has started paying special attention to air activities during the yatra. Security agencies believe that regular movement of helicopters during the yatra may affect security operations. Apart from this, it has also been decided to limit or stop helicopter service to give priority to aerial surveillance and activities of security forces in sensitive areas.

According to officials, security arrangements have been further strengthened during the yatra. Additional security forces are being deployed along the yatra routes, base camps and surrounding areas. Drone surveillance, CCTV networks, modern communication systems and intelligence mechanisms have also been activated. Security agencies are making extensive preparations to deal with any possible threat.

The closure of helicopter service will have the biggest impact on those devotees who wanted to complete the journey in less time. The trek on the Baltal and Pahalgam routes is several kilometers long and challenging. However, the administration says that horses, palanquins and other alternative arrangements will be available for the convenience of the devotees. Medical facilities are also being made stronger than before so that passengers can get immediate assistance in case of emergency.

People associated with tourism and local business believe that the closure of helicopter service may also have some economic impact. Employees and service providers associated with helicopter operations may suffer losses. Some local people say that this decision is necessary in view of security and everyone should cooperate for the peaceful conduct of the Yatra.

Experts believe that security should be the top priority in a huge religious journey like Amarnath Yatra. If security agencies decide to suspend helicopter services based on apprehension of any risk, the aim is to ensure the safety of devotees. In such a situation, passengers should follow the guidelines issued by the administration while planning their journey.