‘Tech-driven surveillance, round-the-clock checkpoints, multi-force deployment, CRPF’s layered security on NH-44, sniffer dogs and bomb disposal squads deployed’
As the annual Amarnath Yatra gets ready to begin on July 3, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing unprecedented security arrangements to protect the thousands of pilgrims heading to the holy cave in the Himalayas.
The 38-day-long pilgrimage will take place under tight, multi-layered security, combining manpower and modern surveillance technologies.
The UT administration, along with central security agencies, has put the entire Yatra route—from Baltal in Ganderbal to Pahalgam in Anantnag—on high alert.
Air movement has already been completely banned over the Yatra corridor to avoid any aerial threats.
“Maximum deployment of forces is happening across all sensitive zones. We’re leaving no stone unturned,” a senior official, aware of the security arrangements, told news agency KINS.
He said that key security measures include “Sniffer dog squads (K9) , bomb disposal teams, Drones and anti-drone systems, Facial recognition technology, full security cover of the convoy movement along the Jammu-Srinagar highway and the real-time tracking with RFID technology to monitor pilgrims’ movement has been put in place for smooth Yatra.
Troops from the Army, CRPF, BSF, ITBP, CISF, and J&K Police have been strategically deployed, especially in sensitive areas like Rajouri, Poonch, and South Kashmir, which have seen terror activities in the past.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha have directed security forces to be fully alert and ensure the pilgrimage continues without interruption.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has also asked the armed forces to guarantee an incident-free Yatra.
A senior CRPF officer said, “This is the most extensive security plan we’ve ever rolled out for Amarnath Yatra. From intelligence inputs to modern technology, everything is being used to ensure safety.”
Officials said the administration has adopted a zero-tolerance policy. Anyone found using fake registration cards or attempting to breach protocols will face strict legal action.
“This Yatra is not just a spiritual event — it’s about national pride and unity. We will ensure it remains peaceful and sacred,” said a senior police officer posted at the Baltal camp.(KINS) Ishtiyaq Kar
