In response to recent controversy and comments made by certain political figures, the Border Roads Organization (BRO) has released a clarification statement. Reports in print and social media attributed statements to BRO, suggesting that yatris visiting the Shri Amarnath Ji holy cave would soon have access through a vehicular road. Disputing these claims, BRO has categorically stated that such information is factually incorrect.
In their official statement, BRO clarified that the work assigned to them by the UT Government in September 2022 for the maintenance and upgradation of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra track is progressing at a steady pace within the designated working window. The ongoing effort primarily focuses on widening the tracks leading to the Holy Cave, aligning with directives from the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India.
The Hon’ble Court, in WP (C) 284 of 2012, issued directions for sufficient widening of tracks to facilitate pedestrian traffic, address congestion, improve critical stretches, and ensure safety measures such as railings and retaining walls along vulnerable stretches—all with a keen eye on environmental concerns.
BRO has actively undertaken the widening of tracks designed for the movement of yatris on foot, utilizing palkis/dandies, and ponies. Post the handover of yatra tracks in September 2022 by the Government of UT of J&K, BRO has diligently worked on widening tracks, improving gradients, and enhancing safety features like railings and retaining walls in vulnerable areas along the route.
These efforts have significantly improved the satisfaction levels of the yatris, making their movement on tracks safer. In order to address the work that could not be completed before the last yatra, BRO, deploying both manpower and machinery, has widened many remaining portions of the tracks that were narrow and vulnerable. This initiative aims to make the movement of yatris visiting the Holy Shrine on foot, talkies/dandies, and ponies more comfortable and convenient.
BRO’s commitment to adhering to environmental concerns, ensuring safety, and enhancing the overall experience for Yatris underscores its dedication to facilitating the sacred pilgrimage to the Shri Amarnath Ji holy cave.
