24x7 help desks, announcement centres on Baltal route enhancing yatri experience

Baltal, Aug 17: As the annual Amarnath Yatra is nearing its end, the arrangements by the administration this year proved more convenient for the yatris.

Adding further support to the efforts, the District Information Centre Ganderbal had introduced a range of measures to ensure the safety, convenience, and well-being of the yatris undertaking the Amarnath Yatra.

The setup of 24x7 help desks-cum-announcement centres at key transit camps along the yatra route marks a significant step in enhancing the overall yatri experience besides providing the much-needed logistic support to different departments and yatris.

To provide continuous assistance and information during the ongoing Amarnath Yatra 2024, the District Information Centre Ganderbal had established 24x7 help desks at all crucial transit camps manned by dedicated personnel, who remained available round the clock to address queries, concerns, and emergencies of the yatris.

The multilingual support offered by the help desk staff ensured effective communication with yatris from diverse linguistic backgrounds, making the assistance accessible to all.

“The process of resolving our problems vis-à-vis the loss of valuables, getting separated from the main group is lighting fast. I got separated from my group at Barimarg and was at a loss to comprehend the situation but with the timely assistance of the helpdesks, I was able to connect to my family at Baltal. My family members were also provided requisite assistance by the personnel manning these desks. My valuables were also returned to me,” said a yatri who had come from South India to perform the yatra along with a group of his family members and friends.

Yatris from different parts of the country thanked the administration for setting up these centres as a one-stop solution for a myriad of yatri needs, including medical assistance, registration, RFID card issuance, route guidance, and emergency services.

This comprehensive support system is designed to ensure the well-being and convenience of the yatris throughout their journey.

“The presence of these help desks gives confidence in the yatris knowing that help is always at hand, no matter the hour or location,” said a yatris from Gujarat who had come to perform the yatra after performing different yatras across the country.

An official said that the public address systems had been installed at various stations, including the Baltal base camp, halting points, and other significant locations along the yatra route.

These systems are used to make important announcements regarding safety guidelines, weather advisories, and any changes in the yatra schedule.

In times of emergency, the public address system provides immediate instructions and guidance, proving to be an indispensable tool in crisis management.

Beyond their practical uses, the public address system also contributes to the spiritual ambience of the yatra.

By broadcasting devotional hymns, spiritual messages, and cultural information, the systems help create a spiritually uplifting and culturally enriching environment for the yatris.

This blend of practical and spiritual support ensures that the yatris’ journey is not only safe but also deeply fulfilling.

The help desk also disseminates important updates and instructions to pony wallas, providing real-time information regarding the route, weather conditions, and any potential challenges.

This proactive approach ensures that pony wallas can make informed decisions, considering the safety and well-being of both yatris and horses.

In case of emergencies, the ‘Pony Point’ acts as a point of contact, offering immediate assistance and medical support for any accidents or health-related issues involving yatris or horses.

The initiatives introduced by the District Information Centre Ganderbal have significantly enhanced the Amarnathji Yatra 2024.

From continuous assistance and comprehensive services to strategic communications and extensive media coverage, every aspect has been thoughtfully designed to ensure a safe, enriching, and memorable yatra experience for all.