In the wake of the recent terror attack near Pahalgam that left several security personnel and civilians injured and dead, the Indian government has significantly bolstered security arrangements for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, reflecting its deep concern for the safety and well-being of pilgrims.
The 38-day-long annual pilgrimage to the 3,880-metre-high Amarnath cave shrine is set to begin on July 3, with pilgrims trekking via two traditional routes — the 48-kilometre path from Pahalgam in Anantnag district, and the shorter but steeper 14-kilometre route from Baltal in Ganderbal district.
The first batch of yatris will depart from the Jammu-based Bhagwati Nagar base camp on July 2, under heightened security protocols aimed at preventing any untoward incident.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, addressing reporters, assured that the administration is fully prepared and committed to ensuring a safe and peaceful pilgrimage this year, particularly in light of the recent violence in South Kashmir.
“The Jammu and Kashmir Police, in coordination with central forces, has implemented an unprecedented multi-tier security grid for the yatra. Every possible measure is being taken to ensure that pilgrims are protected from any threat,” he said.
Tuti, who chaired a high-level security and logistics review meeting along with Jammu Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar, said that this year’s arrangements surpass those of previous years.
“Whether it is deployment in vulnerable zones, surveillance with additional CCTV cameras, or increased patrolling along the route, the scale and vigilance have been enhanced,” he stated.
Over 180 companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed specifically for yatra-related duties, including static deployment at key locations and dynamic response teams across sensitive stretches.
One of the major improvements this year is the deployment of Road Opening Parties (ROPs) even between Lakhanpur and Jammu — a segment that had no such security cover in past years.
The entire Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, from Lakhanpur to Banihal, is now under tight security cover, including langars (community kitchens), lodging areas, and checkposts.
“After the recent attack in Pahalgam, we cannot afford any lapses. Our forces are alert, mobile, and fully equipped to prevent any disruption. There will be a layered security framework in both urban and rural segments of the yatra route,” the IGP added.
To manage the movement of pilgrims effectively and reduce vulnerability, the traffic police will issue daily advisories starting July 2.
These advisories will include cut-off timings for movement across various checkpoints along the yatra route to ensure that all pilgrim convoys travel within safe hours.
IGP Tuti emphasized the importance of adhering to official travel protocols. “All pilgrims are strongly advised to travel only with the designated convoys that depart early in the morning, between 4:00 and 4:30 am.
Traveling alone or outside the convoy puts lives at risk and must be avoided. Organised movement within secured groups ensures maximum protection,” he said.
The robust and comprehensive security arrangements underscore the seriousness with which the Indian government is treating the safety of pilgrims this year, especially after the recent escalation in militant threats in the region.
The message from authorities is clear: ensuring the sacred journey is completed in peace and without incident is a national priority.
