Katra, June 26: With the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) 2026 set to commence and a significant increase in pilgrim footfall expected, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have intensified security preparations for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. DIG Udhampur-Reasi Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma, IPS, on Friday chaired a comprehensive joint security review meeting at Katra and en route to Bhawan to assess operational preparedness and ensure the safe, smooth and peaceful conduct of the pilgrimage.
Multi-Agency Coordination Reviewed
The high-level meeting was attended by senior officers from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army, CRPF, Intelligence Bureau, CID, Railways, Traffic Police and officials of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. SSP Reasi presented a detailed briefing on the existing security grid covering Katra town, the pilgrimage route and the Holy Shrine. The meeting reviewed deployment patterns, CCTV surveillance, emergency response mechanisms and coordination among all stakeholder agencies.
Focus on Vulnerable Areas and Area Domination
Special emphasis was placed on securing hilly terrain, high ridges and other vulnerable locations surrounding Katra town, the yatra track and the shrine. The DIG directed intensified surveillance and strategic deployment of security personnel at dominating heights and sensitive points to prevent any security breach. The deployment matrix from Katra to Bhawan was also reviewed to ensure comprehensive security coverage for pilgrims throughout the route.
Enhanced Security Measures Ordered
Reiterating that the safety of devotees remains the highest priority, the DIG directed the establishment of random checkpoints and intensified vehicle checking across the region. He also instructed round-the-clock joint Long Range Patrols (LRPs) by the J&K Police and CRPF, enhanced foot patrolling, regular area domination exercises, activation of Village Defence Guards (VDGs) and continuous monitoring of vulnerable areas.
Crowd Management and Emergency Preparedness
The meeting extensively discussed crowd management strategies to facilitate the orderly movement of pilgrims and prevent incidents such as stampedes, sabotage attempts or other emergencies. Officials were instructed to ensure adequate deployment of manpower, emergency response teams, communication systems, medical assistance and other essential facilities to guarantee a safe and hassle-free pilgrimage.
Vigilance at Accommodation Facilities
The DIG also stressed the need for regular inspections and verification of hotels, lodges, guest houses, homestays and other accommodation facilities catering to pilgrims. He underscored the importance of seamless coordination among all security agencies, timely intelligence sharing and swift response mechanisms to effectively tackle any emerging security challenges.
Commitment to a Safe Pilgrimage
The meeting concluded with all participating agencies reaffirming their commitment to maintaining a secure, peaceful and pilgrim-friendly environment for devotees visiting the Holy Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi during the upcoming pilgrimage season.