Srinagar, Oct 10: Addressing recent reports suggesting the construction of a vehicular road up to the Amarnath Yatra Cave, the Border Roads Organization (BRO) clarified on Friday that the widened tracks are exclusively designated for pedestrian traffic.
A spokesperson for BRO refuted the news circulating in print and social media, asserting that the reports claiming yatris visiting the holy cave would soon have vehicular access are factually incorrect.
The spokesperson explained that the ongoing work, assigned to BRO for the maintenance and upgradation of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra track by the UT Government in September 2022, is focused on widening the tracks for pedestrian traffic only. This initiative aligns with the directives of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, specifically outlined in WP (C) 284 of 2012.
The court mandated sufficient widening of tracks to facilitate pedestrian traffic, alleviate congestion, improve critical stretches, and address environmental concerns by providing safety railings and retaining walls along vulnerable stretches.
The spokesperson emphasized that the widening of tracks is meant for the movement of yatris on foot, by palkis/dandies, and on ponies. Following the handover of yatra tracks to BRO by the Government of UT of J&K in September 2022, the organization has undertaken the widening work, improving gradients, and installing safety features along vulnerable stretches to enhance the safety and satisfaction of yatris.
Despite some work remaining incomplete before the last yatra, BRO has continued its efforts to widen remaining portions of the tracks, making the movement of yatris on foot, palkies, dandies, and ponies more comfortable and convenient. The objective is to ensure a safer and improved experience for those visiting the Holy Shrine.
