Pahalgam terror attack has impacted Amarnath yatra registration: LG Manoj Sinha

Srinagar: Lieutenant governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, on Thursday said that the Pahalgam attack has impacted tourism and the number of registrations for the Amarnath yatra has fallen 10% so far, compared to last year.

Speaking to the media in Srinagar, he said elaborate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure a smooth yatra and urged all pilgrims to ensure that they move in a security convoy - right from Lakhanpur in Jammu to the holy cave in Kashmir.

The LG was hopeful of an increase in the number of yatris. The duration of the yatra, starting from July 3, has been reduced to 38 days from the initial 52 days. This year, there would be no helicopter services for yatris due to the prevailing security situation and recent incidents in the aviation sector.

"The security grid has been strengthened, multi-layer security is in place and Army, CAPF and J&K police have ensured all necessary measures for a safe pilgrimage," Sinha said adding, "We request all yatris, even if they are travelling in private cars, to ensure that they move in a security convoy right from Lakhanpur in Jammu."

The LG has convened a meeting with political leaders, including CM Omar Abdullah, to discuss arrangements for the yatra.