TNI Bureau: The shocking reality has come into light yesterday that at least 67 Amarnath pilgrims have died in the last 16 days while the authorities have remained mute spectators.

Most of the pilgrims died of cardiac arrest. Although the deaths during the Amarnath Yatra are very common, the rising toll has become a big concern for the J&K government and the centre.

In 2011, 105 died during the 45-day Amarnath Yatra. However, 67 deaths in just 16-17 days this year, has raised a panic button. The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) has expressed its deep concerns over the deaths and asked the authorities to address all health related issues among the pilgrims.

Over 4.5 lakh pilgrims have already registered for the Amarnath Yatra. Thousands of unregistered pilgrims are on their way to visit the holy Amarnath shrine.