Srinagar, Jul 21: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg on Tuesday said all decisions regarding the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra will be taken strictly on the basis of weather advisories issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), with the safety of pilgrims remaining the administration’s foremost priority.
Speaking to reporters, Garg said the pilgrimage has been temporarily suspended following the latest IMD weather advisory, and the decision to resume the Yatra will be taken only after a comprehensive assessment of weather conditions in consultation with the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB) and the district administrations.
“We are taking every decision regarding the Yatra solely on the basis of IMD weather advisories. The pilgrimage has been suspended due to the prevailing weather conditions, and the next call will also be taken in accordance with the weather advisory after reviewing the ground situation,” he said.
Despite repeated weather-related interruptions since the commencement of the 57-day pilgrimage on July 3, the Div Com said the Yatra has witnessed an overwhelming response from devotees across the country. He informed that nearly 3.90 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance at the holy cave shrine so far.
Highlighting the administration’s preparedness to deal with the prevailing weather situation, he said authorities are maintaining constant surveillance across Kashmir, particularly in areas vulnerable to heavy rainfall and flooding.
Referring to reports of flash floods and cloudbursts in parts of north Kashmir, the Divisional Commissioner said the overall situation remains under control and is being monitored round the clock.
“As of now, there has not been any major requirement for rescue operations. However, preventive evacuations have been carried out in vulnerable locations wherever necessary. In Anantnag district, people were shifted from some areas of Kokernag as a precautionary measure, while similar preventive evacuations were also undertaken in certain localities of Baramulla,” he said.
He acknowledged that incidents of cloudbursts in some areas had created localized flooding, but stressed that the administration has responded promptly and continues to keep a close watch on all vulnerable regions.
Garg said all district administrations have already identified relief and rescue centres and have mapped vulnerable populations living near rivers, streams and flood channels to ensure swift response in case the situation worsens.
“Nearly 7.5 lakh people residing in vulnerable areas across Kashmir have been identified and mapped. If the need arises, rescue resources will be mobilised immediately and all necessary relief measures will be activated without delay,” he said.
The Divisional Commissioner appealed to the public and pilgrims to follow official advisories and avoid paying heed to rumours, assuring that the administration remains fully prepared to respond to any weather-related emergency while ensuring the safety of residents and Amarnath pilgrims.
