Fresh batch of pilgrims set off on Amarnath Yatra

Poonch (Jammu and Kashmir), July 23 (ANI): Thousands of devotees joined the annual Baba Buddha Amarnath Yatra here recently.

The holy shrine of Buddha Amarnath, also known as Chattani Baba Buddha Amarnath, is situated 290 kilometres northwest from here.

Interacting with mediapersons here, former Punjab Health Minister Lakshmi Kanta Chawla, reiterated that the pilgrimage holds its own importance, as it has become popular all over the country.

"It's a very good thing that whole country is coming here. Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir are here. From Assam till the South, whole of country comes here. This yatra will culminate on August 2, the full moon day," he said.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Poonch district, Shamsher Hussain, said elaborate security arrangements have been made to ensure the safety of the pilgrims.

"We have done elaborate security arrangements from Birji till Mandi area. Devotees stay in Poonch for the night. In all the camping sites, elaborate security arrangements have been made, round the clock guard takes place," Hussain said. (ANI)