JAMMU, June 9: With preparations intensifying for the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, Kathua Police have activated a multi-layered security grid incorporating drone surveillance, highway domination, intensified intelligence gathering and enhanced ground-level checks to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.
The security arrangements were reviewed during a security-cum-coordination meeting chaired by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mohita Sharma at the District Police Lines in Kathua on Monday.
The meeting was attended by senior officers from the police, Army, Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and intelligence agencies to finalise a coordinated security strategy for the 57-day pilgrimage, which is scheduled to begin on July 3 and conclude on August 28.
According to a police spokesperson, the SSP directed all officers to maintain the highest level of vigilance and ensure there is no room for complacency during the pilgrimage.
Presenting a detailed overview of the security architecture for the yatra, Sharma reviewed arrangements related to surveillance, convoy management, deployment of Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and emergency response mechanisms. She stressed the importance of seamless inter-agency coordination, strict adherence to security protocols and maintaining a pilgrim-friendly environment.
The SSP instructed supervisory officers to strengthen security arrangements through regular inspections of langars, lodgement centres and other facilities associated with the pilgrimage. She also directed them to maintain close surveillance on suspicious activities and anti-national elements.
Officers were asked to intensify intelligence generation, promptly share actionable inputs and maintain close coordination with intelligence agencies and other stakeholders to ensure a proactive and robust security framework.
Special emphasis was laid on securing the National Highway and railway tracks passing through the district. Directions were issued for round-the-clock domination, intensified checking at vulnerable points and regular area-domination patrols.
The spokesperson said officers were also instructed to complete census and tenant verification drives along the National Highway, at hotels, dhabas and industrial units to rule out the presence of anti-national elements in areas falling along the pilgrimage route.
To further enhance surveillance and response capabilities, Sharma called for intensified drone-based monitoring, installation of X-ray machines and deployment of dog squads for anti-sabotage checks at key locations, including Base Camp Lakhanpur and other yatra-related facilities.
She also stressed the importance of maintaining operational readiness of Quick Reaction Teams and ensuring effective management and security of yatra mini-convoys.
As part of the enhanced surveillance plan, CCTV coverage at all important yatra locations will be expanded and monitored round-the-clock through dedicated control systems.
The SSP underscored the need for close coordination among police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), civil administration, traffic police, health services and other departments to ensure prompt information sharing and effective response to any contingency.
Reiterating the commitment of security agencies towards the annual pilgrimage, Sharma called for sustained operational readiness and coordinated efforts to ensure a safe, secure and successful Amarnath Yatra for thousands of devotees expected to travel through the district next month.
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