SANJY 2026: First Batch of Shri Amarnath Yatra Pilgrims Warmly Welcomed at Nayug Tunnel, Qazigund

Bhat Ashraf

Kulgam, July 2: The first batch of Shri Amarnath Yatra (SANJY) 2026 pilgrims received a warm and heartfelt welcome at the Nayug Tunnel in Qazigund, South Kashmir's Kulgam district, marking the ceremonial commencement of the annual pilgrimage under multi-layered security arrangements.

The reception was led by DIG South Javid Iqbal, SSP Kulgam Anayat Ali Chowdhury, ADC Viqar Giri, , SSP Traffic, Additional SP NHW Mumtaz Ali Bhatti, along with several district and tehsil-level officers, senior civil and police officials, members of the Qazigund Trade Association, and local residents.

The pilgrims expressed happiness and gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the district administration and the people of Kulgam. The first batch witnessed a modest turnout.

J&K administration has made elaborate arrangements to ensure a safe, secure, and smooth pilgrimage. A robust security grid has been established with the deployment of the Indian Army, CRPF, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and other security agencies across the Yatra route.

To further strengthen security, authorities have deployed drone surveillance, CCTV monitoring, and multi-layered security checkpoints from Lakhanpur to the Baltal and Pahalgam routes, ensuring the safety and convenience of all pilgrims.

Officials reiterated their commitment to the peaceful, secure, and hassle-free conduct of the Shri Amarnath Yatra 2026.