STATE TIMES NEWS
SRINAGAR: Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) has established a control room equipped with helpline facility to guide people undertaking the pilgrimage starting 2nd July.
“The control room has been established in the office of Additional Chief Executive Officer of the SASB,” Chief Executive Officer of the Board P.K Tripathi, said.
He said the helpline will function from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM on all weekdays from 19th to 30th June and round-the-clock from 1st July, 2015 till the conclusion of the pilgrimage.
The Chief Executive Officer said that any person seeking information or assistance about the forthcoming yatra, which starts on 2nd July can call on 0194-2501679 or 0946922210 or send an e-mail at sasbjk2001@gmail.com.
“Interested pilgrims can also gather Yatra related information through the Shrine Board’s website by logging on to www.shriamarnathjishrine.com and also send e-queries on-line through the website,” he added.
Tripathi cautioned the pilgrims against undertaking the ardous yatra without securing a permit. “Only those yatris who are in possession of Yatra permit, which is valid for a specified date and route, will be allowed to proceed beyond Base Camps, and across the entry gates at Domel and Chandanwari,” the CEO said.
He appealed to all the intending pilgrims to complete the necessary formalities for registration and timely obtain a Yatra Permit so that they do not face any inconvenience.
Keeping in view the very tough nature of the trek, children below the age of 13 years and elderly above the age of 75 years shall not be permitted to undertake the pilgrimage.
The CEO also advised intending pilgrims to come with adequate woolen clothing as the journey involves climbing across high mountains and facing cold winds. “Temperature can sometimes fall abruptly by 5 degrees Celsius or lower,” he said.
He also advised pilgrims to prepare for the yatra by achieving a high-level of physical fitness and start doing deep breathing exercises and yoga for improving their oxygen efficiency.
“Pilgrims are also advised not to use slippers because there are steep rises and falls on the route to the Holy Cave,” he said.