Like in previous years, the Kailash Mansarovar yatra will commence in the first week of June 1999 with a total of 16 batches. However, the yatra would be shortened by three days, making it more comfortable for the yatris.

The yatris are now going to be taken in a bus till Mangti, cutting down on a three-day trek. However, the only worry is that those suffering from high altitude sickness will have no time to get acclimatised. From Tawaghat at 914 metres above sea level, they will touch Mangti at 2,240 metres in a couple of hours in a bus.

There have been instances of people coming in with fake fitness certificates in religious frenzy to undertake the yatra. ``We will disregard all such certificates and conduct our own tests to ascertain their fitness levels,'' said Kaul. Now the yatris will not only be tested by the ITBP at their base hospital but also at Gunji at 3,500 metres above sea level. ``If they are found to be unfit there, they will be returned,'' he added. A new medical post at Navidang has also been set-up.

Medical officers and paramedic staff with first-aid kits would be accompanying each batch of Yatris from Gunji to Navidang to Lipuleh and back from Lipuleh to Gunji on their return. The ITBP has asked for complete charge of the Mansarovar yatris so that they have a complete charge of the operations.

It has been decided that that the size of the groups would be limited to 35. An upgradation of the facilities have also been done like flush toilets will be provided at every overnight shelter.

ITBP officers will also be provided with walkie talkie set so that any untoward incident can be reported. These officers will also have an approval from the government to recommend suspension of yatra or requisition a helicopter in case of bad weather.

The Malpa tragedy had re-opened the debate on whether to open the pass through Kashmir and Nepal. ``This is a time-tested route and is supposed to be the best. The one through Kashmir has very little back-up for tourists,'' said Kaul. The advertisements asking for applications have already started to appear. The entire trip is likely to cost Rs 35,000 per person.