Unprecedented security arrangements across J&K

Srinagar, June 28: As the annual Amarnath Yatra commences, stringent security measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of the yatris even as Access Control Rooms have been established for swift action.

A comprehensive security blanket has been kept, particularly along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, involving unprecedented area domination and surveillance operations, senior officials of the security establishment said.

The officials said that the security arrangements include multi-layered security checks, enhanced surveillance, and round-the-clock monitoring to prevent any untoward incidents.

J&K Police, Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and other paramilitary forces, have been strategically deployed along the route.

“We are committed to ensuring a safe and peaceful yatra for all yatris. The security arrangements are robust, and we are leaving no stone unturned to prevent any disruptions,” a senior J&K Police officer said.

He said that the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, a crucial route for the yatra was under tight security.

“Drones, CCTV cameras, and aerial surveillance are being utilised to monitor the highway and surrounding areas,” the senior Police officer said.

He said that the special Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) had been stationed at vulnerable points to respond swiftly to any security threats.

“The deployment of advanced surveillance equipment and QRTs ensures real-time monitoring and quick response capabilities. We are fully prepared to handle any situation that may arise,” the senior Police officer said.

The security forces are conducting regular coordination meetings to review and update the security protocols.

Joint control rooms have been established along the route to facilitate seamless communication among various agencies.

“The safety of the yatris is our top priority. We have set up multiple checkpoints to verify and ensure that only authorised individuals are allowed near the Yatra route,” the senior Police officer said.

Meanwhile, a senior Army officer in south Kashmir said, “Our troops are working in close coordination with the J&K Police and paramilitary forces. Regular drills and simulations are being conducted to ensure that our personnel are well-prepared to tackle any emergency.”

The authorities have also implemented stringent security measures around the base camps.

The areas surrounding the camps have been meticulously divided into sectors, with senior Police officers designated as sector officers to monitor security operations closely.

The J&K Police, in collaboration with paramilitary forces and the Army, have deployed a robust security apparatus to safeguard the yatra, which draws thousands of devotees each year.

This year, security has been further heightened in light of recent threats and intelligence inputs.

Each sector is under the vigilant watch of senior Police officers appointed as sector officers.

These officers are tasked with overseeing the security protocols and ensuring seamless coordination among various security agencies.

Their presence is aimed at maintaining a high level of vigilance and quick response capability.

In addition to the sector officers, access control rooms have been established at key points along the yatra route.

These control rooms are equipped with the latest communication and surveillance technology to facilitate real-time monitoring and swift action in case of any security breaches or emergencies.

The control rooms serve as the nerve centres for security operations, enabling coordinated efforts between ground personnel and command centres.

The security arrangements include multi-layered checks at various points leading to the base camps.

The yatris and their belongings are subjected to thorough screening to prevent any untoward incident.

The security forces have also intensified patrolling in the vicinity of the camps and along the yatra route.