Find it Absurd: J&K CM as Helicopter Service not Allowed in Amarnath Yatra Route
The Amarnath Yatra, a revered pilgrimage route in Jammu and Kashmir, is set to kick off soon, and the state government is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of the devotees. One of the key measures includes declaring the route a “no flying zone”, prohibiting helicopter services to and from the yatra site. While this decision has raised some eyebrows, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed his reservations, calling it “absurd”.
In a recent statement, the Chief Minister stated that he finds the decision to restrict helicopter services in the Amarnath Yatra route to be absurd. According to him, this could send the wrong message to the rest of the nation about the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The Chief Minister’s concerns are rooted in the fact that the ban on helicopters could lead to a perception that the state is not capable of providing adequate security to its citizens.
The decision to declare the Amarnath Yatra route a “no flying zone” was taken in the wake of heightened security concerns. The yatra, which attracts lakhs of devotees every year, is considered one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimages. However, the route is also vulnerable to security threats, given its remote location and the presence of militant groups in the surrounding areas.
In the past, security concerns have led to the cancellation of the yatra on several occasions. To mitigate these risks, the state government has taken various measures, including the deployment of additional security personnel, the installation of CCTV cameras, and the implementation of strict checking points along the route.
Despite the Chief Minister’s reservations, the state government remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of the devotees. In fact, the Chief Minister has expressed his happiness that the yatra is going to start soon, and has assured that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure a smooth and peaceful pilgrimage.
The ban on helicopter services is likely to affect not only the devotees but also the local economy. Many local stakeholders, including hoteliers and shopkeepers, rely heavily on the yatra for their livelihood. The restriction on helicopter services could lead to a decline in tourism and economic activity in the region.
The decision to ban helicopter services has also raised questions about the state government’s ability to provide adequate infrastructure and facilities to the devotees. The yatra route is known for its challenging terrain and harsh weather conditions, and the lack of helicopter services could make it difficult for devotees, especially the elderly and the physically challenged, to access the yatra site.
In conclusion, the decision to declare the Amarnath Yatra route a “no flying zone” is a complex issue that has raised concerns about security, infrastructure, and the economy. While the state government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the devotees is commendable, the ban on helicopter services could have unintended consequences. As the yatra is set to begin soon, it remains to be seen how the state government will address these concerns and ensure a smooth and peaceful pilgrimage for the devotees.
