Srinagar, July 6 (KNS): The annual Amarnath Yatra was temporarily suspended on both routes to the cave shrine today due to heavy rainfall, officials confirmed.

According to reports, intermittent heavy rainfall has been experienced along the Baltal and Pahalgam routes since last night, prompting authorities to halt the yatra as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of the pilgrims.

Over 1.5 lakh devotees have already visited the 3,800-meter-high cave shrine, which is considered one of the holiest sites in Hinduism.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelThe yatra, which began on June 29, is expected to culminate on August 19.

Last year, a record 4.5 lakh pilgrims offered prayers at the shrine, and authorities are expecting a similar turnout this year.

The temporary suspension of the yatra has been done to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure the safety of the pilgrims, officials said.

The situation is being closely monitored, and the yatra is expected to resume once the weather clears up. (KNS).