Srinagar, Aug 03: The annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra continued smoothly from the Baltal axis on Monday as thousands of pilgrims made their way towards the holy cave shrine amid tight security and elaborate arrangements by the administration and security agencies. Official sources said that more than 4.40 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance at the holy cave shrine since the commencement of the annual pilgrimage, reflecting the steady influx of devotees from across the country. However, the traditional Pahalgam axis continues to remain closed as restoration and repair work on the damaged track is underway following recent weather-related disruptions. As a result, the yatra is presently being conducted through the Baltal route, where authorities have ensured uninterrupted movement of pilgrims. The convoy was escorted under multi-layered security arrangements to ensure the safe movement of pilgrims towards Baltal.