It is worth noting that Pahalgam is one of the two main routes for pilgrims to access the Holy Cave, with approximately 15,000 pilgrims expected to use it daily. The alternative Baltal route is also expected to handle a similar volume of devotees.In light of the security threat, senior government officials are closely monitoring developments. Last week, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan and Director General of the CRPF GP Singh visited Jammu and Kashmir to review the preparedness of security arrangements for the Yatra.Due to the elevated risk, the area has been declared a no-fly zone, and helicopter services for pilgrims have been suspended for this year. Authorities have divided the region into smaller security zones and further segmented these into pockets, each under the vigilance of multiple agencies for comprehensive coverage.An advisory has also been issued for all intending pilgrims, stating that helicopter services will not be available. Pilgrims will have to reach the Holy Cave Shrine on foot or by using pony or palki (palanquin) services, in compliance with the no-fly restrictions now in place.
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