The state-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has become the country's first telecom firm to launch mobile services at the Holy Amarnath cave, as well as on the two routes of the yatra.

Minister of State for Telecom Sachin Pilot launched the service by making a call from the shrine to Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra.

According to sources, eleven towers have been put up at Baltal-I, Baltal-II, Baltal Base Camp, Noonwan, Lakipora, Betab Valley, Domail, Sangam/Holi Cave, Panchtarni, Chandanwari and Chandanwari Base Camp.

The yatra route will have telecom services for the first time.

The new services has been made possible with the help of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board.

BSNL sources said that it was a challenging task to provide connectivity to the shrine at a height of 13,500 feet.

The service is expected to benefit over four lakh pilgrims who visit the shrine every year.

Local inhabitants, the administration and security forces are also expected to benefit from this move.