A project covering 11.6 kilometers that will greatly minimize travel time.
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 29: The Central Government has announced plans to connect 18 religious and tourist sites with ropeways, including the revered Shri Amarnath Ji cave shrine located in the South Kashmir Himalayas. The shrine sees an annual pilgrimage lasting 45 to 60 days from June to August, during which devotees must either navigate the 38-kilometer Pahalgam route or the shorter yet challenging 13-kilometer Baltal trail to witness the Ice Lingam of Lord Shiva.
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The introduction of the ropeway is set to extend the annual pilgrimage duration and may lead to an influx of devotees, as the current challenging terrain deters many from participating in the yatra.
According to officials from Excelsior, among the proposed 18 major ropeway projects, the one linking the Shri Amarnath Ji cave shrine from Baltal in Ganderbal district will be the most extensive, covering 11.6 kilometers.
This initiative will provide a cost-effective travel option for Amarnath Ji pilgrims. Currently, pilgrims either trek to the cave shrine or rely on helicopter services available from both Pahalgam and Baltal routes. Additionally, options such as mules and palkis are offered for those who prefer not to walk.
The ropeway will significantly cut travel time, facilitating a smoother and more comfortable pilgrimage experience, thus attracting more visitors to the sacred site. Many potential pilgrims are currently unable to visit due to the arduous trek and the high cost of air travel.
The government has reportedly requested proposals from consultants for all 18 targeted religious and tourist sites, including the Shri Amarnath Ji cave shrine, with these consultants tasked with preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs).
Moreover, the new ropeway will enable visitors to take in the scenic beauty of the surrounding terrain.
This development is projected to enhance accessibility for a broader demographic of pilgrims, including children, the elderly, and individuals with mobility challenges, thereby making the annual Amarnath Yatra reachable to thousands of devotees.
In 2024, the Amarnath Yatra is set to commence on June 29 and conclude on August 19, spanning 52 days. The pilgrimage is anticipated to welcome over 350,000 registered pilgrims, indicating a substantial increase compared to the previous year.
