The ongoing severe heatwave in Kashmir has significantly affected the annual Amarnath Yatra, leading to the rapid melting of the natural ice Shiva Lingam within the first ten days of the pilgrimage. Pilgrims reported that the sacred ice formation, a revered symbol of Lord Shiva, has almost completely melted due to the unprecedented high temperatures. The Amarnath Yatra commenced on July 3rd, and the early melting of the Lingam marks a concerning trend, with this year seeing the fastest melting in recent history. Despite the Lingam’s absence, over 1.70 lakh pilgrims have visited the holy cave, maintaining their devotion. Weather experts attribute this to climate change, including reduced rainfall, shrinking glaciers, and increased temperatures, exacerbating the situation.
