Srinagar, Aug 30: The annual Gangbal Yatra commenced today with great religious fervour after being ceremoniously flagged off by the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, from Naranag Temple in Ganderbal district.
Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore; SSP Ganderbal, Khalil Poswal; and other civil and police officials were present on the occasion.
A group of pilgrims from the Kashmiri Pandit community began their spiritual journey from the historic Naranag temple following the revered Charri Puja.
The devotees, escorted by SDRF teams, police personnel, and officials from health and other departments, set out on the 15-km trek to the sacred Gangbal Lake, nestled at an altitude of around 14,500 feet in the Harmukh mountain range, an official spokesman said.
Speaking on the occasion, the Divisional Commissioner commended all stakeholders for their coordinated efforts in ensuring seamless arrangements for the Yatra.
He extended his best wishes to the pilgrims and the supporting teams accompanying them.
The sacred rituals will be performed on the banks of Gangbal Lake, after which the pilgrims will return the next day.
On the occasion, the organisers and devotees expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the district administration, police authorities, and the local community of Naranag for their invaluable cooperation and support, which have been instrumental in the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.
