Srinagar, June 21 (KNS): Citing the ongoing second wave of Covid-19, the Jammu and Kashmir LG led Administration has cancelled the annual pilgrimage of Amaranth Yatra this year.

According to the news agency KNS, office of the LG on its Twitter handle wrote, "Shri Amarnathji Yatra cancelled in wake of Covid-19 Pandemic. Decision after threadbare discussion with Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board members. Yatra to be symbolic only. However, all the traditional religious rituals shall be performed at the Holy Cave Shrine as per past practice."

"It's important to save people's lives. So, it is not advisable to hold and conduct this year's pilgrimage in the larger public interest," Tweeted the office of LG.

Earlier, Shrine board while taking note of the sharp rise in COVID-19 cases had decided to temporarily suspend registrations for the yatra this year.

It was informed that the situation is being constantly monitored and the registrations will reopen once the COVID spread is reviewed as the situation evolves.

The Board had commenced registrations on 1st April, and the arrangements were on track since February this year. 

Notably, this is second time in a row that the annual yatra has been cancelled to the Covid-19 pandemic. (KNS)