Security forces induction completed for pilgrimage, mock exercise today

Srinagar, Jun 24: Less than 10 days ahead of commencement of the annual Amarnath Yatra, security arrangements along the Pahalgam route have been completed and a mock exercise to scheduled to be held on Wednesday.

A multilayered security setup is now active, involving over 10 Superintendents of Police (SPs), 15 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DySPs)- additional to district deployment – and hundreds of paramilitary and police personnel to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage.

The yatra to the 3,880-metre-high holy cave shrine of Lord Shiva in the Himalayas of South Kashmir is set to begin on July 3, with routes from both Pahalgam in Anantnag district and Baltal in Ganderbal district now being heavily secured. The entire Pahalgam route has been divided into 17 zones and 51 sectors, each under the operational command of designated officers. This granular division allows real-time monitoring, quicker response, and seamless coordination among various security and administrative units. Each zone will have Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), anti-sabotage teams, mountain rescue teams, and traffic control personnel stationed strategically.

Security agencies have launched an aggressive anti-terror campaign in entire Anantnag. According to senior police officials more than 20 cordon and search operations (CASO) are being conducted daily along the yatra route and surrounding forest belts. The Jammu and Kashmir Police, Indian Army, and CRPF are jointly involved in these operations to sanitize the terrain. “Induction has been completed and mock exercise is scheduled on Wednesday,” Inspector General of Police, Kashmir zone VK Birdi told Greater Kashmir. “ All security arrangements have been put in place.”

“We are not taking any chances. Every inch of the route is being monitored with human intelligence and technical surveillance,” said a senior police official overseeing operations in Anantnag district. “All potential threats are being neutralized well in advance. Our objective is zero tolerance for any attempt to disrupt the yatra.”

To test the preparedness, mock exercises are scheduled for Wednesday, involving emergency response units, disaster management authorities, medical teams, and traffic regulators. These drills will simulate various scenarios, including natural calamities, terror attacks, and health emergencies, to ensure all stakeholders are in sync.

High-definition CCTV cameras, drone surveillance, and satellite tracking have been integrated into the security grid. Special monitoring centers are operational in both Anantnag and Ganderbal districts. “In addition to the physical deployment, we are leveraging drone-based reconnaissance and AI-enabled facial recognition systems at key checkpoints,” said another Jammu & Kashmir Police official . “Pilgrims’ safety is our top priority, and we are fully prepared for every eventuality.”

Civil administration has been tasked with ensuring logistical support — including water supply, electricity, sanitation, and medical facilities — at each designated halting station. Several base camps and langars (community kitchens) have been cleared and equipped with necessary permissions and safety checks. “We are working in full coordination with the police and Army. Weather contingencies, landslides, and health emergencies have all been factored into our contingency plans,” said an official of Divisional administration.

Union Home Ministry is closely monitoring developments. Central forces including BSF, ITBP, and SSB have been deployed in sensitive areas, especially in higher altitudes and forest zones. “The success of Amarnath Yatra is a symbol of national unity and resilience. The level of coordination between civil and security agencies this year is unprecedented,” a senior official told Greater Kashmir. Authorities have urged yatris to register in advance, carry valid ID cards, and follow the officially recommended guidelines. Weather conditions remain volatile, and pilgrims have been advised to avoid unsanctioned detours and rest only in authorized shelters.