The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has widened the tracks leading towards the Amarnath shrine, thus enhancing the accessibility for pilgrims traveling on foot, palkis, and ponies. The BRO also released a video that showcased the successful journey of the first vehicles reaching Amarnath after the road to the cave shrine was expanded under Project Beacon.

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Addressing misconceptions about vehicle access to Amarnath shrine

Despite the successful expansion, the news of vehicles reaching the cave shrine sparked criticism, with political parties expressing environmental concerns. However, the BRO clarified that reports suggesting pilgrims could soon access the shrine via vehicular road were factually incorrect. The BRO emphasized its commitment to the maintenance and upgradation of the yatra track in accordance with Supreme Court directives.

The statement reiterated that the widening of tracks for pedestrians, palkis, and ponies was undertaken to improve the safety and satisfaction levels of yatris while adhering to environmental guidelines.

Steady Progress: Yatra Track Maintenance

The BRO provided an update on its progress, indicating that the work assigned by the Union Territory government in September 2022 is proceeding at a steady pace, with ongoing efforts to widen tracks, improve gradients, and enhance safety measures.

The BRO emphasized the substantial improvement in Amarnath yatris‘ satisfaction levels due to the widened tracks, improved gradients, and the installation of safety railings and retaining walls, making the movement of pilgrims safer.

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Widening of remaining portions for Yatra tracks

To ensure the completion of pending work from the last yatra, the BRO, employing both manpower and machinery, has widened the remaining portions of tracks that were narrow and vulnerable, aiming to provide a more comfortable and convenient experience for pilgrims visiting the holy shrine on foot, palkis, dandies, and ponies.