The Kashmir Dialogues
117K Pilgrims Transported So Far from July 3
Anantnag, July 16 : In a significant feat of coordination and planning, the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD), J&K, under the leadership of Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) Anantnag Mubashir Jaan, has ensured hassle-free transportation for over 1.16 lakh pilgrims during the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025 from Nunwan Base Camp to Chandanwari.
As per official data, 116,793 pilgrims have been successfully transported using 16,028 vehicles deployed between July 3 and July 15, 2025. The transport services are running seamlessly, with daily deployment of around 1000 vehicles, ensuring timely, safe, and uninterrupted travel for yatris across the route.
In a dedicated initiative to support sadhus, the ARTO Anantnag has been operating a free shuttle service using four mini buses on multiple trips per day. A total of 70 such shuttle movements have been recorded so far, offering respectful and convenient access to transit points for the ascetic pilgrims.
A senior official told JKNS, “The comprehensive transport plan includes route coordination, vehicle scheduling, en-route facilitation, and emergency preparedness, all executed with precision to accommodate the massive pilgrim footfall.”
The department also ensured fitness checkups for selected days to guarantee mechanical reliability and passenger safety, particularly in the initial stages of the yatra.
This entire mobility grid, supervised by ARTO Anantnag, has played a pivotal role in maintaining law and order, minimizing delays, and upholding the sanctity and discipline of the yatra. Officials added that more such measures will continue to support yatris until the culmination of the pilgrimage.
Sheikh Sameer
M S Nazki
