Multi-layer security grid in place for safe Amarnath Yatra: IGP Kashmir

Srinagar, Jun 30: Stating that all security agencies are working in close coordination to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the annual Amarnath Yatra, slated to commence on July 3, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, Vidhi Kumar Birdi, on Tuesday said a comprehensive multi-layered security grid has been put in place for the annual pilgrimage.
Talking to reporters on the sidelines of a security preparedness exercise here, IGP Birdi, said, “Extensive mock drills involving all stakeholders have been conducted to clearly define their respective roles and responsibilities in the event of any emergency or contingency.”
“The objective of these mock drills is to ensure that every stakeholder understands their responsibility and responds in a coordinated manner during any unforeseen situation. These exercises also help security forces refine their operational capabilities and improve response time,” he said.
The IGP said the security architecture has been designed on a multi-layered model by integrating robust ground deployment with advanced surveillance and continuous monitoring.
He said monitoring and supervision are also being carried out from elevated locations to maintain a comprehensive watch over the Yatra route and adjoining areas.
Highlighting the challenges posed by difficult terrain and changing weather conditions, the IGP said several stretches along the pilgrimage route remain vulnerable to natural calamities, including landslides, avalanches and glacial movement.
“The vulnerable locations have been scientifically identified and mapped in advance to facilitate timely preventive measures and emergency response,” he said.
He added that Medical Response Teams (MRTs) and other emergency rescue units have been strategically deployed at sensitive locations to provide immediate assistance in case of weather-related emergencies or any other incident.
IGP Birdi reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir Police, along with other security forces and the civil administration, remains fully prepared to ensure a peaceful, secure and hassle-free pilgrimage for the thousands of devotees expected to undertake the annual yatra.
SSP Srinagar, Dr GV Sundeep Chakarvati said the comprehensive mock drill tested emergency preparedness, inter-agency coordination and response mechanisms. “We are confident our multi-layer security plan, technology and public cooperation will ensure a safe and peaceful Amarnath Yatra,” he said.
Meanwhile, in a statement, Srinagar Police said it conducted a comprehensive multi-agency mock drill at the Transit Yatri Camp, Panthachowk, as part of the preparations for SANJY-2026 to assess emergency preparedness and strengthen response mechanisms.
The statement said the exercise was aimed at evaluating operational readiness, inter-agency coordination, communication systems and the effectiveness of emergency response during critical situations.
It said the mock drill witnessed participation from J&K Police, CAPFs, Traffic Police, Security Wing, Fire and Emergency Services, Health Department, SDRF, Civil Administration, Ambulance Services and other stakeholder agencies.
The statement reads, all participating agencies were briefed on their respective roles and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) before the exercise, with particular emphasis on response time, communication flow, coordinated action and adherence to established emergency protocols.
The statement said the drill simulated multiple emergency scenarios, including road traffic accidents, fidayeen attacks, law and order contingencies, accidental injuries, evacuation, rescue operations and medical emergencies, enabling participating agencies to validate their preparedness and coordinated response under realistic conditions.
It said arrangements relating to food, shelter and medical assistance for pilgrims have also been streamlined through the coordinated efforts of the Civil Administration, CAPD, Revenue and Health departments under the unified command of the Joint Police Control Room (Joint-PCR).
The statement added that a detailed debriefing session was held after the exercise to identify operational gaps, evaluate response mechanisms and further refine the Emergency Response Plan and SOPs ahead of the Yatra.
Notably, Srinagar Police reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe, secure and incident-free Amarnath Yatra-2026 through coordinated planning, seamless inter-agency cooperation and proactive policing, the statement added. (KNO)