Amarnath Yatra registrations surge in Chandigarh, Mohali despite Pahalgam terror attack

Undeterred by recent terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), pilgrims are turning out in even greater numbers than last year, with footfall figures already surpassing previous records well ahead of schedule.

At the Mohali Phase 2 branch alone, more than 550 permits have been issued in just 15 days — a milestone that had taken nearly six weeks to reach in 2023.

“Last year, from April 15 to May-end, we registered around 500 pilgrims. This year, we crossed that number in just two weeks,” said Ravinder, Assistant Branch Manager at the branch.

“By the end of May, we are confident of reaching 650–700 registrations.”

The Chandigarh branch is witnessing an even higher turnout, with over 700 registrations recorded so far. “Last year, by late April, we had processed about 300–400 applications.

This time, we have already crossed 700, and we still have a month to go,” said Rouf Bhatia, banking associate.

To manage the growing crowds, the Mohali branch has set up a temporary tent outside the premises and introduced a token system for pilgrims.

Of the registration cost at Rs 150 per pilgrim — Rs 135 of which is collected by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), the government-managed body overseeing the yatra.

After taxes, the bank retains about Rs 13 per registration.

Based on current numbers, the Mohali branch has collected roughly Rs 7,150, while the Chandigarh branch has collected around Rs 9,100 — totalling over Rs 16,250.

Pilgrims opting for online registration pay an additional Rs 100 service fee, officials said.

Security agencies, meanwhile, are adapting in response to the recent attacks.

Sources said forces are planning to realign deployment, stationing troops closer to the Baisaran Valley and securing the rear of surrounding forests to curb potential terrorist movement.

The reconfiguration is expected to strengthen the security grid ahead of the yatra.

Despite the risks, pilgrims remain undeterred. Amit, a solo pilgrim from Mohali, said, “I go every year. I feel safe despite everything that has happened. I have never faced any security issues.”

First-time pilgrim Rajendar Singh, travelling with friends, echoed the same sentiment. “I am not scared. The Indian Army is there to handle everything,” he said.

Some, like Manjeet, a Chandigarh Police officer and regular yatri, acknowledged the dangers but said faith outweighs fear. “Such incidents are unfortunate, but the yatra will be safe. We must carry on.”

An unnamed devotee from Rohtak added, “I am saddened by the attacks, but fear should not stop us. India was never a country that sits scared, our military is strong. I believe in our forces.”

Pilgrims from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and other neighbouring regions have been thronging both branches. Officials report a cancellation rate of just 0–1 per cent, mostly due to personal changes in travel plans.

With over a month to go before registrations close, officials expect record-breaking numbers this year.