Is Union Home Secretary Reviewing Security for Amarnath Yatra?

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Is Union Home Secretary Reviewing Security for Amarnath Yatra?

Synopsis

Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan is in Srinagar to evaluate security for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, which starts on July 3. The meeting will involve key officials to ensure a safe pilgrimage for devotees following recent security concerns.

Key Takeaways

  • Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan is reviewing security for the Amarnath Yatra.
  • The yatra will run from July 3 to August 9.
  • A multi-tiered security arrangement is in place.
  • RFID tracking and health camps are established for pilgrims.
  • Authorities are ensuring a coordinated approach to security.

Srinagar, June 17 (NationPress) Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has arrived in Srinagar on Tuesday to assess the security readiness for the forthcoming Amarnath Yatra, commencing on July 3.

Officials indicated that the Union Home Secretary will evaluate the security measures in place for the Amarnath Yatra and examine the current security landscape in Jammu and Kashmir.

He is convening a review session at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar.

Attending the meeting are J&K Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, DGP Nalin Prabhat, GoC of the Army’s Srinagar headquartered 15 Corps, Lt General Prashant Srivastava, ADG (CID) Nitish Kumar, along with senior officials from CAPFs and other intelligence agencies.

This year, the annual Amarnath Yatra to the revered cave shrine, located at an altitude of 3,888 meters above sea level, will extend over 52 days, from July 3 to August 9.

Pilgrims can access the cave shrine via either the traditional, longer Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route. Those taking the Pahalgam route in Anantnag district reach the shrine after three days, while those opting for the Baltal route in Ganderbal district can return to base camp the same day after the ‘darshan’ inside the shrine.

The shrine contains an ice stalagmite structure that changes with the lunar phases, which devotees believe symbolizes the mystical powers of Lord Shiva.

This year's Amarnath Yatra occurs in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, prompting authorities to heighten security measures for the pilgrimage.

A comprehensive security framework, manned by the Army, CAPFs, and J&K Police, is already established at the shrine, base camps, and transit locations, including the route commencing from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu, for escorted convoys transporting pilgrims to Baltal and Pahalgam.

Authorities have implemented a range of measures, including RFID tracking for yatris, real-time weather alerts, emergency evacuation protocols, and dedicated health camps to ensure the seamless execution of the yatra. RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology utilizes radio waves for tracking tags attached to objects.

Officials confirmed that every aspect, including detailed security protocols, has been meticulously addressed, with a cohesive collaboration between the Army, CAPFs, and local police, functioning like a well-oiled machine to guarantee comprehensive security.

Point of View

It is vital to recognize the efforts being made to ensure the safety of pilgrims during the Amarnath Yatra. The collaboration between security forces highlights the commitment to public safety in the region, emphasizing the importance of a well-coordinated approach to handling large gatherings, especially in sensitive areas like Jammu and Kashmir.
NationPress
17/06/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Amarnath Yatra?
The Amarnath Yatra is an annual pilgrimage to the holy cave shrine of Amarnath in Jammu and Kashmir, where devotees seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
When does the Amarnath Yatra begin?
This year's Amarnath Yatra begins on July 3 and lasts for 52 days, concluding on August 9.
What security measures are in place for the Yatra?
A multi-layered security system involving the Army, CAPFs, and J&K Police is established to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
How can pilgrims track their safety during the Yatra?
Authorities are implementing RFID tracking for yatris, along with real-time weather alerts and emergency evacuation protocols.
What routes can pilgrims take to the shrine?
Pilgrims can choose between the longer Pahalgam route and the shorter Baltal route to reach the Amarnath cave shrine.