As the much-anticipated Amarnath Yatra approaches, set to commence on July 3, security remains a top priority for authorities in the Kashmir Valley. In preparation for the annual pilgrimage, security forces conducted extensive mock drills across various bases and transit camps in districts including Srinagar, Ganderbal, Pahalgam and Anantnag to ensure the safety of thousands of pilgrims.
The joint security exercise involved multiple agencies, including the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Army units. These drills aimed to assess the readiness of security personnel in responding to emergencies such as terrorist attacks, natural disasters, fire incidents, and medical emergencies.
GV Sundeep, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar, emphasized the importance of these drills: “Today, we conducted multiple mock drills along the Yatra route in all eight zones. The main purpose is to evaluate the coordination and reactiveness among forces. Our administration is ready for all challenges,” he said.
This year, the Amarnath Yatra has been significantly upgraded with advanced technology, including AI-based facial recognition systems. For the first time, data on active terrorists and over-ground workers (OGWs) has been integrated into this system. The facial recognition cameras will alert authorities if any flagged individual enters their vicinity. Additionally, every pilgrim will receive RFID tags for real-time tracking, enhancing overall safety during the pilgrimage.
High-resolution CCTV cameras and drones will provide continuous surveillance, with control rooms established at base camps. Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and bomb disposal squads will be strategically positioned to address any potential threats swiftly.
“JK Police have been upgrading their technological capabilities for years. This year’s use of facial recognition systems and AI is a significant step forward in our efforts to ensure security during the Yatra,” said SSP Sundeep. “We are confident that these measures will help us prevent any criminal activities.”
In a proactive move, both Pahalgam and Baltal routes have been declared “No Flying Zones” from July 1 to August 10, 2023, except for authorized security or emergency aircraft. Anti-drone technology has also been deployed to counter unauthorized aerial threats, while sanitization operations will be conducted daily along Yatra routes.
