Yatra Mitra volunteers help enhance pilgrimage experience

Srinagar, Aug 13: The Housing & Urban Development Department (HUDD) in association with Swaaha Resource Management Private Limited has introduced volunteers uniquely called “Yatra Mitra” to facilitate Amarnath Yatra.

The Yatra Mitras are trained volunteers who assist pilgrims at every step of the journey. Their responsibilities include providing information regarding routes, facilities, and safety measures to ensure pilgrims remain well-informed. They also are responsible for distributing eco-friendly kits to encourage green behaviours among yatris and educate them on proper garbage disposal and maintaining cleanliness along the yatra track.

The Yatra Mitras, who have undergone intensive training are well prepared for their roles in areas covering communication skills to effectively address pilgrims’ queries, basic first aid, emergency response, and environmental education to promote sustainable practices and the need to preserve the environment. Deployed at various checkpoints, including base camps, the volunteers ensure continuous assistance to the pilgrims.

“The presence of Yatra Mitras has significantly enhanced the pilgrimage experience,” said Anjali, a pilgrim. “Their guidance and support make the journey much more manageable and comforting especially the presence of female helping hand.”

The initiative has been widely praised by all sections of society. President of the Shrine Board Langar Committee stated, “The sustainable kits and associated awareness drives have considerably decreased the ecological impact of the Yatra. These initiatives are setting a benchmark for green pilgrimages and this facilitation done by these young volunteers are commendable.”

HUDD and Swaaha envision expanding the Yatra Mitra programme by increasing the number of volunteers and enhancing their training. This vision aims to establish a robust support system that helps pilgrims while promoting sustainability and environmental conservation. “The Yatra Mitra initiative exemplifies the power of community and volunteerism in enhancing the pilgrimage experience,” said a HUDD spokesperson. “With dedicated support, sustainable promotion, and cleanliness efforts, Yatra Mitras are transforming the Shri

Amarnath Ji Yatra into a model of well-organised, eco-friendly, and spiritually enriching journeys.”

This initiative, which has already set a new benchmark in volunteer-driven support systems for religious tourism, is making the sacred journey of millions safer, more comfortable, and more environmentally conscious.