Ganderbal, Sep 18: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday urged pilgrims undertaking the Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra to keep the fragile Himalayan environment in mind during their journey, saying the Himalayas should be treated as an ecosystem rather than merely a resource, and that people must act as its custodians.
Speaking at Naranag before flagging off the 18th edition of the yatra, Sinha said that on a pilgrimage, no one is superior or inferior, as all are seekers of truth united in spirituality.
Referring to the Nilamata Purana, he said Harmukut, another name for Mount Harmukh, has traditionally been regarded as the abode of Lord Shiva, while Gangbal holds an important place in traditions associated with Mother Ganga.
Nearly 100 devotees on Friday began the 18th Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra from Naranag in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, embarking on an arduous trek to the high-altitude Gangbal Lake.
The pilgrims assembled at the historic temple at Naranag in the morning before starting the approximately eight-hour journey on foot towards Gangbal. The pilgrimage commenced amid religious fervour and tight security arrangements along the route.
The trek takes the pilgrims through mountainous terrain towards Gangbal Lake, situated at an altitude of around 14,500 feet near Mount Harmukh. The pilgrimage has traditionally been associated with Kashmiri Pandit religious practices and continues to draw devotees despite the difficult high-altitude route.
Speaking to reporters after the flag-off, the Lieutenant Governor welcomed people visiting Jammu and Kashmir from different parts of the country and expressed hope that the region would continue on the path of peace and progress.
The start of the yatra was closely monitored by the civil administration and security agencies. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, IGP Kashmir, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, SSP Ganderbal, DIG Central Kashmir Range, MP Mian Altaf Ahmad, MLA Kangan Mehar Ali, SDM Kangan, SDPO, BDO, Tehsildar and other officials were present at Naranag.
Security personnel were deployed at key points along the route as the pilgrims proceeded towards Gangbal. The administration and organisers said arrangements had been put in place to facilitate the movement of devotees during the trek.
