The annual Budha Amarnath yatra in Mandi hills of Poonch district began today amid tight security as the first batch of 500 devotees reached Poonch.
"The Budha Amarnath yatra started today amid tight security in Poonch district," a police officer said.
The first batch comprising of 500 pilgrims arrived at Poonch today, he said.
The Deputy Chairman of Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Council, Jahangir Hussain Mir, Deputy Commissioner Nisar Ahmed Wani and SSP, J S Johar besides prominent citizens received the yatris at Poonch.
Elaborate arrangements were put in place by the district administration for accommodating pilgrims at ITI Complex, Government Degree College and Boys and Girls Government Higher Secondary Schools.
The batch will leave for shrine of Lord Shiva in Mandi hills of Poonch district tomorrow.
