J-K: Ganderbal Police conducts mock drills ahead of Shri Amarnath Yatra 2026 and annual Mela Kheer Bhawani
Ganderbal, June 7
In preparation for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026 and the Annual Mela Kheer Bhawani, Ganderbal Police conducted a series of comprehensive mock drills in the last week at various strategic locations across the district to assess operational readiness, emergency response capabilities, and inter-agency coordination.
The exercises were carried out at Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple, Wussan Pandit Colony, Manigam Pandit Colony, Wandhama Pandit Colony, and Sonamarg, involving the joint participation of Ganderbal District Police, SOG, Army, CRPF, BSF, SSB, SDRF, Health Department, Fire & Emergency Services, and other security agencies.
A dedicated mock drill was also conducted at Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple in connection with the upcoming Annual Mela Kheer Bhawani, aimed at assessing security preparedness, emergency response mechanisms, crowd management, evacuation procedures, and inter-agency coordination for the smooth and safe conduct of the religious event.
The mock drills simulated various emergency scenarios to evaluate the preparedness of security forces, response mechanisms, evacuation procedures, and coordination among stakeholders. The exercises were conducted smoothly and successfully, demonstrating a high level of alertness, professionalism, and synergy among the participating agencies.
Meanwhile, the advance registration for the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra commenced on April 15 across Jammu and various parts of the country.
Earlier on April 12, J-K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also serves as the Chairman of the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB), officially announced that the annual pilgrimage to the holy cave shrine of Amarnath will commence on July 3 and conclude on August 28 on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, spanning a total of 57 days.
Addressing reporters here, LG Sinha said, "The pilgrimage will begin on July 3rd and conclude on Rakshabandhan on August 28th. Overall, this year's pilgrimage will be slightly longer. It will span 57 days. The Pratham Puja will be held on Jyeshtha Purnima, 29 June 2026. Registration will begin on April 15th.
He added that advance registration facilities will be available both online and offline. "Advance registration is available at 554 bank branches. Jammu and Kashmir Bank, Punjab National Bank, State Bank of India, and Yes Bank have various branches across the country where this registration will be conducted. Online registration can also be done through the official website of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board," LG Sinha said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I appreciate the security preparedness but I hope the local pandits and residents also get adequate protection during the festival period. The mock drills should also include community awareness programs. Overall, a positive step forward.
Good to see the security forces working together seamlessly. But what about the environmental impact of such large gatherings? Hope the authorities also focus on waste management and preserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem during the yatra.
As a Kashmiri pandit, this news gives me hope. The Mela Kheer Bhawani has deep cultural significance for us. Seeing these preparations makes me feel that maybe one day we can visit these holy places without fear. Thank you to all security personnel involved.
The 57-day yatra is quite long this time. I hope the registration process is smooth and the health facilities along the route are adequate. The mock drills should simulate medical emergencies too, given the high altitude and difficult terrain. Stay safe everyone! ✨
Good that they are starting preparations early. But does anyone else remember last year's chaos at the registration counters? Hope the online system works properly this time. Also, I hope the local administration ensures no extortion happens with pilgrims during the journey.
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