GANDERBAL, SEPTEMBER 18: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday flagged off the annual Harmukh-Gangbal Yatra from Naranag in Kangan, formally commencing the pilgrimage to the sacred Gangbal Lake in the Harmukh mountain range.
Rajouri-Poonch Lok Sabha MP Mian Altaf Ahmad, Kangan MLA Mehar Ali, along with senior police and civil administration officials, were present at the flag-off ceremony.
The yatra began from Naranag amid security arrangements put in place by the administration and security agencies to ensure the safe movement of devotees along the mountainous route to Gangbal Lake.
Located at the foothills of Mount Harmukh, Gangbal Lake is an important pilgrimage destination for Kashmiri Pandits and other devotees. The annual yatra involves a challenging trek from Naranag through the higher reaches of the Harmukh mountain range.
Ahead of the pilgrimage, the administration reviewed arrangements covering security, medical assistance, sanitation, drinking water and other essential facilities along the route.
Senior officials from the divisional and district administrations had also reviewed preparations to ensure smooth and safe conduct of the pilgrimage.
With the Lieutenant Governor flagging off the yatra on Friday, devotees began their journey from Naranag towards the sacred Gangbal Lake.
