Over 190 additional companies of CAPF deployed for fool-proof yatra safety

Srinagar, June 27: As the annual Amarnath Yatra commences this weekend, authorities have ramped up security measures to ensure the safety of the thousands of yatris making the arduous journey to the Amarnath cave shrine.

In a concerted effort to provide a foolproof security blanket, over 100 companies of security forces have been deployed along the Pahalgam route, with an additional 90 companies along the Baltal route.

“The additional companies of Central Armed Forces Personnel have already been deployed at both the routes,” senior Police officials said. “Whatsoever security arrangements were in need have already been put in place.”

They said that the robust security apparatus includes the installation of CCTV cameras at strategic points along the yatra tracks, allowing for real-time monitoring and swift response to any potential threats.

“All yatra tracks have been thoroughly sensitised and taken over by security forces to pre-emptively address any security concerns,” the senior Police officials said.

They said that the CCTV cameras, equipped with high-resolution imaging capabilities had been installed along both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes.

“These cameras are monitored round-the-clock from centralised control rooms, ensuring continuous surveillance,” the officials said.

They said that the live feed from these cameras would allow security personnel to keep a vigilant eye on the entire stretch of the yatra tracks, enhancing their ability to detect and respond to any suspicious activities promptly.

The officials said that, additionally, Sector Officers have been deployed along both routes to oversee and coordinate the security operations.

“These officers play a crucial role in ensuring seamless communication and coordination among the various security agencies involved, including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), J&K Police, Army and other paramilitary forces,” they said. “Their presence will ensure that any emerging security situation is addressed swiftly and efficiently.”

The senior Police officials said before the commencement of the yatra, security forces had conducted extensive sensitisation operations along the entire route.

“This involved comprehensive area domination exercises to clear any potential threats and ensure the tracks are safe for yatris,” they said. “These pre-emptive measures are aimed at mitigating any risks and providing a secure environment for the yatra.”

The senior Police officials said that from the Pahalgam area under Operation Shiva, the Army had carried out intense clearance of the route and occupied the peaks leading to the Amarnath cave shrine.

They said that to further bolster security, help desks and assistance booths have been set up at various points along the routes.

“These booths are manned by trained personnel who are available to assist pilgrims with any issues they may encounter, ranging from health emergencies to directions and general inquiries,” the senior Police officials said.

Moreover, medical teams are stationed at regular intervals, equipped with essential medical supplies and emergency response equipment.

This ensures that immediate medical assistance is available to any yatri in need, further enhancing the safety and well-being of the yatra participants.