Security measures enhanced in valley ahead of Amarnath Yatra

Indian security forces have intensified their efforts to ensure the safety of pilgrims during the upcoming Amarnath Yatra following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. With anti-terror operations underway in Jammu and Kashmir, preparations for the annual pilgrimage are in full swing.

The Amarnath Yatra, scheduled to begin on July 3 and conclude on August 9, will see heightened security measures along the entire route. The Indian Army, in coordination with other security agencies, is taking proactive steps to ensure the pilgrimage is smooth and secure. Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Prateik Sharma visited the Srinagar-based 15 Corps (Chinar Corps) earlier this week to assess the Army’s preparedness and review security arrangements. “The Army is taking all necessary steps to ensure that the journey is fully safe and smooth,” officials said.

This year, approximately 50,000 security personnel will be deployed across the 38-day journey. Forces will be stationed at base camps, on the yatra routes, and in all sensitive areas. Surveillance will be strengthened by the use of drones, helicopters, and round-the-clock CCTV monitoring. Digital mapping will be used to track the movement of pilgrims, and digital ID cards will be issued for all yatris and pony riders to strengthen identity verification.the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Indian Army have jointly audited all routes for security. Additional safety features being implemented include the following:

• Blocking all approach roads linked to national highways during the yatra
• Enhanced jammer and escort convoy protection
• Deployment of Quick Reaction Teams, bomb disposal units, K9 dog squads, and increased drone surveillance
• Active deployment of combined Police Control Room (PCR) vehicles throughout the route

The yatra, which will commence from Pahalgam, has long been a target of terror groups. There have been 36 attacks on the Amarnath Yatra over the past 32 years. The first occurred in 1993, with multiple attacks following through the 1990s. In 2000, the deadliest attack killed 32 and injured 60 at the Pahalgam base camp, carried out by Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists. In subsequent years, grenades were lobbed at camps and vehicles. A lull followed until 2017, when gunmen attacked a pilgrim bus, killing seven and injuring 32.

Authorities have emphasised that ensuring the safety of pilgrims is their highest priority. “Security agencies have increased their vigilance for the peaceful and safe conduct of the yatra,” officials said. “It is the priority of the central and state governments that the devotees can reach the holy cave without any fear and hinderance.”

Last year, over five lakh devotees undertook the Amarnath Yatra, a number expected to rise again this year.