Find it Absurd: J&K CM as Helicopter Service Not Allowed in Amarnath Yatra Route
The Amarnath Yatra, one of the most revered pilgrimages in Hinduism, is all set to commence soon. The annual trek to the holy cave of Amarnath in Jammu and Kashmir is a significant event that attracts millions of devotees from all over the world. However, amidst the excitement and preparations, a recent decision has left many perplexed. The Amarnath Yatra route has been declared a “no flying zone” as part of beefed-up security measures. This means that helicopter services, which are usually used by pilgrims and officials to travel along the route, will not be allowed.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed his reservations over this decision, calling it “absurd”. In a statement, he said that he finds it difficult to understand why the authorities have taken such a step. He added that this could send the wrong message to the rest of the nation about Jammu and Kashmir’s situation.
“It’s absurd that we are not allowing helicopters to ply on the Amarnath Yatra route. This is a huge inconvenience for the pilgrims and also for the officials who are supposed to ensure the smooth conduct of the Yatra,” said Omar Abdullah.
The Chief Minister’s comments have raised eyebrows, with many wondering why he is opposing a decision that is meant to enhance security. However, Omar Abdullah’s concerns are not entirely unfounded. The declaration of the Amarnath Yatra route as a “no flying zone” will undoubtedly cause inconvenience to the pilgrims, many of whom rely on helicopter services to travel along the route.
Moreover, the move is also likely to affect the functioning of the Yatra’s management committee, which relies heavily on helicopter services to transport officials, pilgrims, and essential supplies. The committee has already expressed its displeasure over the decision, saying that it will make it difficult for them to manage the Yatra efficiently.
The decision to declare the Amarnath Yatra route as a “no flying zone” is part of a larger effort to beef up security in the region. The authorities are concerned about the growing threat of terrorism and militancy in Jammu and Kashmir, and are taking steps to ensure the safety and security of the pilgrims.
However, some critics have argued that the decision is too extreme and may not be necessary. They point out that the Amarnath Yatra has been taking place for centuries, and that the authorities have always been able to ensure its smooth conduct without declaring the route a “no flying zone”.
In recent years, the Amarnath Yatra has faced several challenges, including threats from militant groups and environmental concerns. In 2013, a group of militants had attacked a police post near the Amarnath Yatra route, killing several people. Since then, the authorities have been on high alert, taking measures to ensure the security of the pilgrims.
This year’s Amarnath Yatra is expected to be the largest ever, with over 7 lakh pilgrims expected to participate. The Yatra will commence on July 1 and will continue till August 15.
Despite his reservations over the decision to declare the Amarnath Yatra route as a “no flying zone”, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed his happiness that the Yatra is going to start soon. He has appealed to the pilgrims to cooperate with the authorities and ensure the smooth conduct of the Yatra.
In conclusion, the decision to declare the Amarnath Yatra route as a “no flying zone” has sparked a debate in Jammu and Kashmir. While the authorities are concerned about security, many have expressed concerns about the inconvenience it may cause to the pilgrims. As the Yatra commences, it remains to be seen how the authorities will balance security with the needs of the pilgrims.
