Amarnath Yatra set to commence with deployment of cutting-edge technology

Srinagar, Jul 1: With just a day left for the commencement of the annual Amarnath Yatra, authorities have declared a high alert across Jammu and Kashmir as the 38-day yatra to the Amarnath cave shrine in south Kashmir is set to begin on July 3.

In the wake of heightened security concerns, especially after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, officials have deployed a multi-layered, tech-driven security apparatus along the twin yatra routes – Pahalgam in Anantnag and Baltal near Sonmarg in Ganderbal.

Top sources in the security establishment told Greater Kashmir that this year’s yatra would witness the most extensive and sophisticated security grid ever deployed in the region.

The arrangements include Facial Recognition Systems (FRS) at strategic points, RFID tracking for all yatris and vehicles, hundreds of AI-enabled CCTV cameras along the route, no-fly zone restrictions with a complete ban on drones and UAVs and a three-tier security cordon around base camps, halting points, and forested areas.

“These facial recognition systems are directly integrated with a centralised database of known militants, overground workers (OGWs), and suspects. If an individual flagged in the system enters a camera’s range, an automated alert is triggered, enabling real-time response by security personnel,” officials said adding that this system is already operational, and its effectiveness was demonstrated on June 19, when it led to the arrest of a suspected OGW in Anantnag district.

As part of new security protocols, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags are now mandatory for all registered yatris, vehicles, and staff.

These allow real-time tracking and ensure rapid response in case of emergencies, such as a lost pilgrim or any threat.

More than 500 high-resolution CCTV cameras, many with AI-based motion and behaviour detection software, have been deployed at entry checkpoints, rest camps, langars (community kitchens), and critical junctions along the routes.

These smart systems can flag suspicious movement or crowd behaviour, aiding in preventive action.

The entire yatra corridor, from Jammu to the cave shrine, has been declared a “no-fly zone” from July 1 to August 10.

The ban includes drones, paragliders, balloons, and any unmanned aerial devices.

Strict aerial surveillance is being carried out by the Indian Air Force, which remains on standby for emergency evacuations as well.

In Jammu, where a majority of pilgrims begin their journey, multi-agency checkpoints have been activated across highways, near Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas, and on the city outskirts.

These joint teams – comprising J&K Police, CRPF, BSF, and intelligence agencies—will conduct 24×7 vehicle screening, identity checks, and baggage inspections.