Kailash Kund Yatra to commence on August 29, security tightened for pilgrims as terror threat looms

The upcoming Kailash Kund Vasuki Nag Yatra, scheduled to start on August 29, faces a serious terrorist threat this year. In response to security concerns, the administration has implemented stringent measures, limiting the number of pilgrims and securing the yatra route from the Kathua district, according to media reports. Typically, around 10,000 devotees participate in this pilgrimage through various routes, with 2,000 to 3,000 pilgrims from Bani and Duggan in Kathua alone. However, this year, the number of community kitchens (langars) will be reduced. The yatra traditionally commences from Chhatragalla on the Bhaderwah-Kathua border, where terrorists attacked a joint Army and Police post in June. Similarly, the Nuknali Mata Yatra earlier this year was also canceled due to security threats.