NEW DELHI, Jun 10: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has intensified security preparations across Jammu and Kashmir ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra, with additional focus on safeguarding pilgrimage routes and maintaining peace during the 57 day religious journey scheduled to commence on July 3.
The enhanced deployment follows a comprehensive review of the security situation by CRPF Director General GP Singh during his ongoing visit to the Kashmir Valley. Senior officers and field commanders participated in discussions aimed at further strengthening protective measures for the pilgrimage, which will conclude on August 28.
Officials said special attention is being given to strategically important locations along the traditional routes leading to the revered cave shrine. Security personnel have been instructed to increase operational readiness in sensitive areas and reinforce surveillance mechanisms to prevent any disruption during the pilgrimage season.
The force has also been directed to maintain a robust presence in remote mountainous regions while ensuring continuous monitoring of populated areas and key transit points. The objective is to strengthen the overall security framework and facilitate the smooth movement of devotees expected to arrive in large numbers from across the country.
According to officials, the security plan forms part of established Standard Operating Procedures implemented every year before the commencement of the pilgrimage. Given the significance of the annual event, authorities are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of pilgrims travelling through both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes.
The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board has already finalised arrangements for the pilgrimage, which remains one of the most important religious events in the country. Thousands of devotees undertake the challenging journey each year to pay obeisance at the holy cave shrine situated in the Himalayas of Kashmir.
As part of the security protocol, the entire pilgrimage corridor has been declared a No Flying Zone from July 1 until the conclusion of the Yatra. The restriction applies to both major routes and has been imposed to strengthen overall security management during the event.
Authorities have also announced that helicopter services will not be available for pilgrims during this year’s Yatra. Devotees have been advised to plan their journey accordingly and use traditional means of travel, including trekking, ponies and palkis, to reach the sacred cave shrine.
Officials expressed confidence that the extensive security and logistical arrangements being put in place will ensure the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. Multiple agencies are working in coordination to provide a safe environment for devotees and address any operational challenges that may arise during the nearly two month long event.
The annual Amarnath pilgrimage holds immense religious significance and attracts worshippers from various parts of the country. Security agencies, civil administration and shrine authorities have been engaged in detailed planning to facilitate a peaceful and incident-free Yatra this year.