Find it Absurd: J&K CM as Helicopter Service not Allowed in Amarnath Yatra Route
The upcoming Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir has been a topic of much discussion and debate in recent times. As part of the beefed-up security measures, the Amarnath Yatra route has been declared a ‘no flying zone’, which means that helicopter services will not be allowed to operate along the route. While this decision has been made to ensure the safety and security of the pilgrims, the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, has expressed his reservations about the same.
In a recent statement, Omar Abdullah voiced his concern over the decision, terming it as “absurd”. He emphasized that this move could send a wrong message to the rest of the nation about Jammu and Kashmir’s situation. According to him, the helicopter service was a vital part of the Yatra, and its prohibition would only add to the difficulties faced by the pilgrims.
Abdullah’s comments came as a surprise to many, considering that the decision to declare the route a ‘no flying zone’ was taken to ensure the security of the Yatra. The Jammu and Kashmir government has been working tirelessly to ensure the smooth conduct of the Yatra, which attracts thousands of devotees every year. The ‘no flying zone’ declaration is part of the elaborate security arrangements put in place to prevent any untoward incident.
However, Omar Abdullah’s concerns are not without basis. The prohibition on helicopter services could indeed add to the difficulties faced by the pilgrims. The Amarnath Yatra is a challenging trek, and the absence of helicopter services would mean that pilgrims would have to rely on foot or other modes of transport to reach the shrine. This could lead to a logistical nightmare, especially for the elderly and those with mobility issues.
Furthermore, the decision to declare the route a ‘no flying zone’ has sparked criticism from various quarters. Many have questioned the necessity of such a move, especially when the Yatra is already a well-organized event. The security arrangements in place are already robust, and the prohibition on helicopter services seems to be an overkill.
Despite his reservations, Omar Abdullah has expressed happiness that the Yatra is going to start soon. He has emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of the pilgrims, and that the ‘no flying zone’ declaration is part of those efforts. The Chief Minister has also appealed to the people to cooperate with the security forces and ensure a smooth conduct of the Yatra.
The Amarnath Yatra is a significant event in the Hindu calendar, and it attracts devotees from all over the world. The shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Yatra is a symbol of devotion and faith. The prohibition on helicopter services may add to the difficulties faced by the pilgrims, but it is essential to remember that the safety and security of the Yatra are paramount.
As the Yatra is set to begin, the Jammu and Kashmir government is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a smooth conduct. The ‘no flying zone’ declaration is part of those efforts, and it remains to be seen how the pilgrims react to the same. While Omar Abdullah’s concerns are understandable, it is also essential to recognize the importance of security measures in ensuring the success of the Yatra.
