• Protect pilgrims from any harm by ANEs
•Visits Baltal, Chandanwari reviews overall security measures enroute
•Ensure stringent protocols to safeguard the aerial transportation of pilgrims
Srinagar, June 23: Ahead of the annual AmarnathYatra, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone V.K. Birdi has instructed officers to utilize modern security gadgets to bolster surveillance along the pilgrimage routes.
In key security meetings with police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), IGP Birdi emphasized the use of technology, including CCTVs and drones, to counter threats from anti-national elements (ANEs) and terrorists.
The 52-day-long AmarnathYatra is set to commence on June 29 and will conclude on August 19 in the Kashmir Himalayas. The inspection of security arrangements aims to ensure a safe and seamless pilgrimage. IGP Birdi underscored the importance of strict monitoring, vigilant patrolling, and prevention of security breaches.
“The officers deliberated upon coordination mechanisms, intelligence sharing, and contingency plans to address any potential threats”.
Earlier, IGP Kashmir was briefed by the officers about the proposed security measures and arrangements to be put in place for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra-2024.
“The briefing included Access Control, ASCs, arrangements for camp security, use of modern, technical gadgets, road opening parties, laterals and preparations for disaster management etc,” he said.
The spokesman said the IGP also directed officers to ensure better coordination and synergy with different security agencies working on ground for peaceful conduct of the yatra.
On Sunday, IGP Birdi visited the Baltal main yatra camp to assess security arrangements and review facilities in preparation for the pilgrimage. Accompanied by senior police and CAPF officers, Birdi conducted a comprehensive inspection to guarantee a smooth and secure journey for all participants.
A police spokesman reported that IGP Birdi examined vehicle regulation and parking measures at Baltal, reviewed resource management for streamlined movement of pilgrims, and assessed the implementation of cut-off timings to mitigate potential risks. Disaster management preparedness was another focus, with the IGP overseeing the readiness of teams and infrastructure for emergency situations.
The security of helipad operations was also scrutinized to ensure stringent protocols for safeguarding aerial transportation of pilgrims. At the Joint Police Control Room (JPCR) in Baltal, seamless coordination among all stakeholders involved in managing the AmarnathYatra was emphasized.
IGP Birdi also reviewed the access control mechanism at Domail, security along the route from Srinagar to Baltal, and various camping sites en route, advising officers to fortify security measures and enhance safety parameters.
Following the inspections, IGP Birdi engaged in discussions with Police and CAPF officers at Baltal to refine strategies for bolstering security frameworks and optimizing operational efficiencies, underscoring the commitment to a safe and incident-free AmarnathYatra.
On Saturday, IGP Birdi inspected security arrangements from Navyug Tunnel to Chandanwari, assessing measures along the yatra route and at camping sites. He chaired a meeting with police and CAPF officers, reviewing ground deployment, access control, AS check teams, surveillance systems, and emergency response protocols.
The IGP stressed the importance of coordination and synergy among different security agencies on the ground for the peaceful conduct of the yatra.
