Amarnath Yatra 2026 draws record crowds, bolsters security and highlights Chenab Bridge

The 2026 Shri Amarnath Yatra has attracted more than 2.5 lakh pilgrims so far, with the 12th batch of 7,754 devotees departing from Jammu and the 13th batch of 5,335 leaving under multi‑layered security. Pilgrims travel via the Baltal and Pahalgam routes on the Jammu‑Srinagar National Highway, where security forces have intensified night patrols, quick‑response teams and vehicle checks. The CRPF 84th Battalion runs a mobile health camp in Chanderkote, providing round‑the‑clock medical care, and conducts Road Opening Party operations to keep the highway open.

The world’s highest railway arch, the Chenab Rail Bridge, has become a popular stop for pilgrims, adding a tourism draw to the spiritual journey. On July 13 a multi‑vehicle collision on the highway injured 18 yatris, who were taken to District Hospital Ramban with minor injuries. Overall, the pilgrimage is proceeding peacefully with extensive coordination among the Jammu and Kashmir administration, police, CRPF and other agencies.