Amarnath Yatra to begin from July 3; robust security arrangements in place, says Anantnag Police
Anantnag, June 27
The Shri Amarnath Yatra 2026 is scheduled to begin on July 3 and conclude on August 28, with Anantnag Police putting in place a comprehensive security arrangement to ensure the safety of pilgrims, including multi-layer surveillance, deployment of security forces and advanced monitoring systems along the route.
Officials said that the police, along with Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and Jammu and Kashmir Armed Police, have been deployed in adequate strength across the entire Yatra route as part of a robust security grid.
On preparations for the Yatra, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anantnag Amod Ashok Nagpure highlighted the security measures and technological surveillance being implemented.
"The Amarnath Yatra is a significant event for all of us, and the Anantnag Police bears the crucial responsibility for its preparations and security," he said.
He further informed that multiple security layers have been deployed to ensure safety along the pilgrimage route.
"This year, the police have deployed multiple companies of CAPF and J&K Armed Police along the entire Yatra route," he said.
Highlighting technological surveillance, he added that facial recognition systems, CCTV coverage and drone monitoring have been activated.
"We have installed 34 Facial Recognition System (FRS) cameras at six locations to keep anti-social elements away from the pilgrimage sites. Additionally, a grid of 416 CCTV cameras has been set up along the route... surveillance is also being conducted via drones... mock drills are being carried out in every zone and sector," he said.
Appealing to pilgrims, he assured full security arrangements and urged them to undertake the Yatra without fear.
"I urge the pilgrims to participate in the Yatra without any fear," he added.
Earlier on Wednesday, in a major step towards ensuring the safe, secure and peaceful conduct of Amarnath Yatra-2026 (SANJY-2026), Anantnag Police has launched "Project Hawk Eye", a comprehensive surveillance and security initiative aimed at maintaining round-the-clock vigilance from the sky to the ground along the entire yatra route.
Under this initiative, Anantnag Police has deployed a multi-layered security and surveillance grid by integrating advanced technology with strategic manpower deployment. To maintain aerial surveillance, 5 drones are being deployed at key locations, providing real-time monitoring and enhanced situational awareness. The aerial surveillance network enables quick assessment of any emerging situation and facilitates prompt response by ground units.
On the ground, 28 strategically located Machan Morchas (elevated observation posts) have been established at vulnerable and sensitive locations to strengthen observation capabilities and enhance area domination. 22 Specially trained sniper teams have also been deployed at designated points to further reinforce the security architecture and ensure effective response preparedness.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Impressive security setup. But I hope the local Kashmiri populace also benefits from the pilgrimage tourism economy. Peaceful yatra means prosperity for all.
Every year the security gets better. Still, I worry about my parents who want to go. The 416 CCTV cameras and 5 drones sound reassuring though. Hope the yatra passes off peacefully.
Good initiative with Project Hawk Eye. But I wish the government also focused on improving basic infrastructure like roads and toilets for pilgrims. Security is important but comfort matters too for such a tough trek.
As someone who did the yatra in 2018, I appreciate the enhanced security. The drone monitoring is a game-changer. Kudos to Anantnag Police for their meticulous planning. May the Lord protect all pilgrims. 🕉️
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