Multi-layer security for Amarnath Yatra: Army

Ganderbal, July 01: Army on Saturday said that the multi-level security has been put in place to thwart any subversive attempt during the annual Yatra.
Addressing a press conference at Nilgrath Sonamarg, Commander 3 Sector RR Brigadier Atul Rajput said that the Army has traditionally been involved in ensuring safe and secure Yatra for the pilgrims.
He said this year too Army has worked with all other stakeholders to put in place a robust and dynamic security grid for the Shri Amarnathji Yatra. “We have ensured multi-tiered security arrangements to include domination of the mountains, sensitisation of Yatra routes and round the clock domination of the area with our latest night vision devices.”
He said that the security personnel on both sides of the mountain have been deployed.
The Special Forces of the Army are keeping a watch over the Yatra route from vantage locations. We have also deployed snipers, anti-drone systems, bomb disposal and dog squads to ensure safe and secure Yatra.
The Army has already augmented a number of Yatri camps with adequate tentage facilities to provide additional habitat during the Yatra. “We have also made available helipads at multiple locations for medical emergencies and to cater for other airlift requirements for the Yatra,” he said.
“We have offered our expertise in mountain rescue to civil agencies and trained Mountain rescue and Avalanche Rescue teams of various agencies. In addition we have conducted joint exercises and mock drills to ensure seamless and successful rescue operations, if and when required.”
Based on the experiences of the cloud burst during the Amarnath Yatra last year, rescue teams and earth movers are being placed at the Holy Cave and multiple locations enroute for any emergencies. Modern equipment to meet contingencies is also available for effective response.