Jammu: The first contingent of 1381 Amarnath pilgrims today (July 14, 2004) left for the annual pilgrimage to the holy cave shrine from the base camp at Maulana Azad stadium in Jammu this morning amidst tight security.

Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma flagged off the fleet of 56 vehicles at 5.15 a m.

The pilgrims were escorted by security personnel mostly from the CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force). The flag off ceremony was also attended by Minister of State for Revenue Garu Ram and other senior officials.

Sharma said he hoped the Yatra will be smooth and trouble-free.

About 1.5 lakh devotees are expected to visit the cave shrine during the one-and-half month Yatra.

The authorities have allowed 3500 yatris (pilgrims) per day to proceed to the holy shrine in South Kashmir. Out of this, 2700 will reach the cave through the Pahalgam route while the remaining will pass through the Baltal route.

Authorities have also set up 18 lodging centres in Jammu city where arrangements have been made for drinking water, ration and medical care.

The route from Jammu to Pahalgam has also been sanitised and security personnel and police have been deployed in adequate number to ensure safety of the pilgrims.