To ensure pilgrim safety and facilitate smooth yatra regulation, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) is all set to operationalize the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) by the first week of May at Katra town-the base camp of Vaishno Devi Shrine-in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Chief Executive Officer, (SMVDSB), Anshul Garg on Friday to assess security and operational preparedness of Shrine area for hassle-free pilgrimage, presided over a joint security review meeting with security agencies and other stakeholders at Central Office, Katra.
The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB; SSP, Reasi; Commandant, CRPF; Joint Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB; SP Katra; Sub Divisional Magistrate, Katra; Tehsildar, SMVDSB and officers from Army, intelligence agencies and Shrine Board.
The CEO emphasized the importance of adhering to the timeline, highlighting that a robust security grid across all key sectors of the shrine relies on the timely activation of the ICCC as this center will enable real-time monitoring, swift response to emergencies and effective coordination among security agencies through a network of 700 CCTV cameras with features like gesture recognition, face recognition, PTZ and such others as per operational requirements.
He urged all concerned quarters to strictly follow the deadline to ensure a safe and secure yatra.
Intelligence sharing and coordination among security agencies also remained key focus areas in the meeting.
The meeting highlighted the need for seamless communication and data exchange to prevent security breaches while strategies to verify the credentials of Pithoo and Ponywallas to prevent impersonation and ensure their legitimate involvement were also discussed to ensure a secure pilgrimage experience.
The meeting also explored deployment of additional security personnel, area domination and the use of drones and other advanced technologies to monitor the Shrine and surrounding areas.
The latest advancements in security scenarios including AI-powered surveillance systems and data analytics were also discussed while the meeting also emphasized the importance of staying ahead of potential security threats by adopting cutting-edge technologies and best practices.
The CEO reiterated the importance of effectively utilizing advanced security equipment crucial for maintaining robust security measures provided to security agencies as per the Shrine Board Chairman, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha directives to ensure a safe environment for pilgrims.
These equipment include X-Ray Baggage Scanners, Door Frame Metal Detectors, Hand-Held Metal Detectors and Under Vehicle Search Mirrors recently procured and installed by the Board in the Shrine area.
“The geo-fencing technology to enhance security in the Shrine area is also essential for optimizing resources and improving shrine management,” said Garg.
The CEO emphasized that security agencies must maintain zero tolerance and not allow any relaxation or leniency in security checks at all points, ensuring strict adherence to protocols to guarantee the safety and security of pilgrims visiting the Shrine.
It was informed by SSP Reasi that FIRs have been registered against unauthorized personnel caught plying as service providers on the track and continuous inspections are underway.
The meeting also thoroughly discussed the peripheral security of Katra town, focusing on strategies to strengthen surveillance, improve intelligence gathering and implement effective access control to ensure a secure environment for pilgrims.
