Jammu, Jun 30: Thousands of pilgrims turned up at the Tawi Riverfront Centre in Jammu on Monday as token distribution for the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra commenced, with the district administration reporting a massive response on the opening day.
The 38-day pilgrimage to the holy Amarnath cave shrine is scheduled to begin on July 3, while the first batch of pilgrims will be flagged off from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas on July 2.
Deputy Commissioner Jammu Rakesh Minhas, accompanied by Senior Superintendent of Police Jammu Joginder Singh and other senior officials, supervised the token distribution process at the newly designated centre.
“A massive turnout of devotees marked the first day of token distribution. Today’s quota has been successfully allocated,” Minhas said, adding that registration of pilgrims will begin from Tuesday.
He said the district administration is fully prepared to ensure a smooth, safe and hassle-free pilgrimage for all devotees.
Highlighting the arrangements made for this year’s yatra, Minhas said the Tawi Riverfront Centre has been equipped with enhanced facilities, including accommodation and resting space for pilgrims, over 100 toilets and bathrooms, and a 24×7 langar (community kitchen).
To streamline the process, the administration has established 18 counters for transparent token distribution and registration. Besides the Riverfront Centre, registration facilities will continue to function at Gita Bhawan, Mahajan Hall, Shri Ram Mandir Purani Mandi and the Jammu Railway Station.
The Deputy Commissioner also appealed to the people of Jammu to extend warm hospitality to the visiting pilgrims and encouraged them to explore the city’s tourist attractions during their stay. (Agencies)
