Baltal/Pahalgam, July 3 -- Marking the formal commencement of the 57-day annual pilgrimage, the first batches of Amarnath Yatris on Friday morning departed from the twin base camps of Baltal and Pahalgam toward the holy cave shrine of Shri Amarnath Ji in the south Kashmir Himalayas.

Amid spiritually charged atmospheres and echoing chants of 'Bam Bam Bhole,' the administrative machinery and security forces cleared the tracks early in the morning to facilitate the departure from both the Ganderbal and Anantnag axes.

At the Baltal base camp, despite a drizzle causing a dip in temperatures, authorities ensured that the passage remained entirely clear for the oncoming rush of devotees.

Detailing the administrative and safety arrangements, B...