New Delhi, July 4 -- The second batch of 3,865 pilgrims undertaking the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra departed from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas base camp in Jammu on Friday amid elaborate security and logistical arrangements.

The pilgrims left in a convoy of 201 vehicles for the twin routes leading to the holy cave shrine in Kashmir. Of the total, 1,735 yatris proceeded via the Baltal route in 115 vehicles, while 2,130 pilgrims departed for the traditional Pahalgam route in 86 vehicles.

According to official figures, the Baltal-bound convoy comprised 1,259 male pilgrims, 335 female pilgrims, four children, 104 male sadhus and 33 female sadhus. The Pahalgam-bound convoy included 1,706 male pilgrims, 283 female pilgrims, 126 male sadhu...