J-K: DIG Udhampur-Reasi Range chairs security review meeting for Vaishno Devi Yatra ahead of SANJY 2026
Katra, June 26
Shiv Kumar Sharma, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Udhampur-Reasi Range, on Friday, chaired a high-level joint security review meeting at Katra to assess and strengthen security and operational preparedness for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra ahead of SANJY 2026 and the anticipated surge in pilgrim footfall.
The meeting was attended by SSP Reasi, SP Katra, SDPO Katra, DySP Bhawan and senior officers from the Army, CRPF, Intelligence Bureau, CID, Railways, Traffic Police and representatives of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
SSP Reasi presented a comprehensive security grid and a detailed briefing on the security arrangements in Katra town, the Yatra route and the Holy Shrine. A thorough review was undertaken of all security measures in place, including deployment en route, CCTV surveillance mechanisms, emergency response systems and coordination among stakeholder agencies.
Special emphasis was laid on the security of hilly terrains, high ridges and vulnerable locations surrounding Katra town, the Yatra track and the Holy Shrine. The DIG directed intensified monitoring and strategic deployment of personnel at dominating heights and sensitive points to ensure effective area domination and prevent any security breach. The deployment matrix along the entire route from Katra to Bhawan was also reviewed to ensure adequate coverage and a secure passage for pilgrims.
Reiterating that the safety and security of devotees remained the highest priority, the DIG issued directions for the establishment of random checkpoints and intensified vehicle checking operations. He further stressed round-the-clock joint long-range patrols by the J&K Police and CRPF, enhanced foot patrolling, regular area domination exercises, activation of Village Defence Guards and continuous surveillance of vulnerable areas.
The meeting also focused on crowd management measures to facilitate the orderly movement of pilgrims and prevent untoward incidents, including sabotage attempts, stampedes or other emergencies. The DIG directed all concerned agencies to ensure the availability of adequate manpower, emergency response teams, communication systems, medical assistance and other essential arrangements for the safe movement of pilgrims en route to the Holy Shrine.
Regular inspections and verification of hotels, lodges, guest houses, homestays and other accommodation facilities were also emphasised.The DIG underscored the importance of seamless inter-agency coordination, intelligence sharing and swift response mechanisms to effectively address any emerging challenges.
The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from all participating agencies to ensure a secure, peaceful and devotee-friendly environment for pilgrims visiting the Holy Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's reassuring that DIG Sharma personally chaired this meeting and stressed on random checkpoints and long-range patrols. But I hope verification of hotels and lodges is done thoroughly—some smaller guesthouses near Katra can be quite lax on safety. Also, the Village Defence Guards activation is a smart move for local surveillance. They should also consider better lighting on the track for night pilgrims. Safety first, always! 👍
I've done the Vaishno Devi yatra twice, and security has improved significantly over the years. But the hilly terrains and ridgelines mentioned are real vulnerabilities—any breach could be catastrophic with so many pilgrims. Glad they're focusing on dominating heights and strategic deployment. My only concern is that sometimes security checks cause long queues and delays for devotees. Hope they balance security with smooth movement. Still, better safe than sorry! 💪
The emphasis on inter-agency coordination and intelligence sharing is spot on. With the Jammu region's security challenges, you can't afford silos. I'm particularly pleased to see CID and IB involved—good intelligence can prevent incidents before they happen. But I'd like to know more about the emergency response systems. Are there dedicated medical teams on the route? What about communication backups in case of network failure? Hope these details are sorted. Overall, a step in the right direction. 😊
Impressive to see such detailed planning a year in advance for the yatra. The security grid presentation by SSP Reasi sounds comprehensive—CCTV surveillance, emergency response, and random checkpoints all made sense. I visited Katra last year and was struck by the devotion of pilgrims. The Village Defence Guards concept is interesting; community involvement can really enhance security. Hope this model works well. Safe travels to all devotees! 🌟
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