Robust New Year Security Grid Activated at Vaishno Devi Shrine, Says IGP Jammu
Technology-Driven Crowd and Security Management Strengthened for New Year Pilgrimage: IGP
KATRA/JAMMU, Dec 28: A comprehensive and technology-driven security plan has been put in place at the holy shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the annual New Year pilgrimage, amid expectations of a heavy influx of devotees. This was stated by Bhim Sen Tuti, Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone, during his visit to Katra.
Addressing the media, the IGP said that an elaborate multi-layered security apparatus has been activated across the yatra track, base camp, and surrounding areas. More than 550 CCTV cameras have been installed along the pilgrimage route and key locations, providing continuous surveillance. The live feeds from these cameras are being monitored round-the-clock at a centralized Integrated Command and Control Center, ensuring swift detection and response to any emerging situation.
The control room, the IGP said, is jointly operated by officials of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and central armed paramilitary forces, ensuring seamless coordination among all stakeholders. Alerts generated through the system are acted upon immediately, enhancing real-time situational awareness and response capability.
During his visit, the IGP conducted a detailed review of the functioning of the Integrated Command and Control Centre at Police Station Katra. He assessed its operational efficiency, surveillance coverage, and coordination mechanisms, with particular focus on its role in managing large crowds during peak pilgrimage days.
Highlighting the role of technology, the IGP said that convergence of multiple digital systems has been achieved to strengthen both security and crowd management. CCTV surveillance, RFID-based tracking, wireless communication networks, and data analytics tools have been integrated into a single platform, allowing better decision-making and faster interventions.
Referring specifically to New Year arrangements, he said that the security measures have been significantly enhanced compared to routine days. Several new initiatives have been introduced, building upon last year’s experience. Advanced CCTV data analytics capable of detecting overcrowding and unusual movement patterns have been further strengthened to enable timely preventive action.
Chairing a security review meeting, the IGP underscored the importance of continuous capacity building and directed officers to organize regular and structured training programmes for personnel manning the Integrated Command and Control Centre. He stressed that effective utilization of modern technology, combined with skilled and well-trained manpower, is critical to ensuring operational effectiveness, improved response times, and seamless coordination during high-footfall events.
During the visit, the IGP also interacted with probationer sub-inspectors, guiding them on contemporary policing practices and the importance of adopting technology-enabled approaches in law enforcement. He emphasized the need for professional, transparent, and time-bound handling of cases, in line with the evolving demands of modern policing.
