Amid COVID-19 pandemic, Amarnath Yatra cancelled for this year

This is the second year in a row that the Yatra has been cancelled. Last year, it was cancelled halfway after the Centre decided to scrap the Article-370 and bifurcate the state into two Union Territories.

"Based upon the circumstances, the Board decided with heavy heart that it is not advisable to hold and conduct this year's Shri Amarnathji Yatra and expressed its regret to announce the cancellation of Yatra 2020," the Amarnath Shrine Board said in a statement.

There will be live telecast from the shrine for devotees to be able to pay respects.

"The Board is aware of and respects the sentiments of millions of devotees and to keep the religious sentiments alive, the Board shall continue the Live Telecast/ Virtual Darshan of the morning and evening Aarti. Further, the traditional rituals shall be carried out as per past practice," it added.

The Amarnath Yatra is attended by thousands of pilgrims every year.

The board further explained their decision for cancellation stating that "The health concerns are so serious that the strain on the health system, along with the diversion in resources to the Yatra, will be immense."

The Centre had allowed religious places to open in May as a part of their Unlock 2 policy.

However, several states decided against it owing to the continuous growth of the pandemic.

The Jammu and Kashmir earlier this month had extended the lockdown till July 31.

"The Board further deliberated the considered views of the government. The government made reasoned observations supported by facts which suggested that it would not be advisable to conduct Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2020 and it would be advisable to cancel it this year in larger public interest," the statement said.

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