In Jammu and Kashmir, to transform Lakhanpur into a multi-facility hub for the annual Amarnath Yatra pilgrims, over three dozen lodging centres and six Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) registration counters have been established in the Kathua district to facilitate pilgrims intending to join the Amarnath Yatra. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that Lakhanpur, the gateway to Jammu and Kashmir bordering Punjab, is being decked up to receive the pilgrims from across the country during the annual yatra. The 38-day-long yatra is scheduled to start from the twin routes, the traditional 48-kilometre Pahalgam in Anantnag district and the 14-kilometre shorter but steeper Baltal route in Ganderbal district on July 3. An adequate number of clean lavatories and entertainment zones have also been established to serve the yatris. Deputy Commissioner, Kathu, a Rakesh Minhas, conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Lakhanpur corridor to assess and finalise preparations for the Amarnath yatra. He inspected the reception points, lodgement centres, registration kiosks and sanitation facilities, including toilet complexes and asked the stakeholder departments to ensure the timely setting up of waterproof pandals, medical and help desks, control rooms, and cold drinking water stations. He also stressed making the toilet complexes and additional facilities fully functional before the arrival of the first batch of yatris. Over 3.50 lakh pilgrims so far have registered themselves for the pilgrimage, and thousands more from across the country are expected to reach Lakhanpur daily.