CRPF scales up counter-terror operations in higher ridges, plains in Kashmir ahead Amarnath Yatra 2026
By Rajnish Singh, New Delhi, June 10
With the annual Amarnathji Yatra set to begin on July 3, the Central Reserve Police Force has significantly intensified its security deployment across Jammu and Kashmir, scaling up "counter-terror operations in vulnerable high-altitude zones while enforcing strict surveillance across the plains."
The heightened security measures come as part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure a peaceful and incident-free pilgrimage, which will run for 57 days and conclude on August 28.
Officials said the move aims to reinforce the existing "security grid", considering the large influx of pilgrims expected to undertake the arduous journey to the holy cave shrine nestled in the Kashmir Himalayas.
The decision to step up operations was taken following specific directions from CRPF Director General GP Singh, who is currently on a three-day visit to the Valley. On the first day of his visit, Singh chaired a high-level security review meeting in Srinagar with senior CRPF officials and field commanders.
Officials, familiar with the discussions, told ANI that the primary focus of the meeting was to strengthen coordination and intensify counter-terror preparedness along the Yatra routes.
"The key focus of the meeting was to enhance security grids to maintain peace and normalcy for a safe and incident-free Shri Amarnath ji Yatra 2026."
They said, "The CRPF commanders have been directed to scale up counter-terror operations on higher ridges while maintaining strict, round-the-clock vigil across the plains."
"The step is part of Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) adopted ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage, considering its importance as a large number of devotees visit the Holy cave during the nearly two-month-long pilgrimage that starts from two different axes-- Pahalgam and Baltal," an official told ANI, on condition of anonymity.
The 2026 Amarnath Yatra, an annual pilgrimage to the holy cave in the Kashmir Himalayas, is organised by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) and attracts thousands of devotees.
In view of the security, all routes of Amarnathji Yatra--including both the Pahalgam and Baltal axes-- are already declared as 'No Flying Zone' from July 1 till completion of the Yatra. Consequently, authorities have declared that helicopter services for pilgrim travel shall not be available in the Yatra area during Shri Amarnathji Yatra (SANJY) 2026.
All pilgrims planning to visit the Holy Shrine during this Yatra have been advised to take note of the same, with directions to reach the holy cave shrine on foot or avail the services of ponies and palkis throughout the Yatra.
To pay obeisance to the holy ice lingam, the devotees undertake the arduous annual pilgrimage to the holy cave shrine located in the Kashmir Himalayas in the months of June-August.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While security is important, I wish they hadn't banned helicopter services. Some elderly devotees really rely on that option. The trek is extremely tough, and not everyone is physically fit to walk all the way. Maybe a partial restriction could work?
Absolutely necessary. The security forces have done a commendable job in recent years keeping the Yatra incident-free. Let's not forget the 2019 Pulwama attack—vigilance is the only way forward. Jai Mata Di! 🚩
Impressive level of preparation. In the West, such pilgrimages would be unthinkable due to security risks. India's resilience and the dedication of forces like CRPF are truly commendable. Stay safe, everyone.
Banning helicopters is a bit harsh, but I get the logic—drones and choppers can be misused by terrorists. Still, the authorities should provide more medical aid stations along the route for those who struggle with the altitude. Safety first, but compassion matters too.
This is fascinating. I've always wanted to visit India for the Amarnath Yatra. The dedication of pilgrims and the security forces is inspiring. Hope the 2026 Yatra is peaceful and blessed. 🌸
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.