'Project Hawk Eye' to provide technology-linked security cover to Amarnath Yatra
Srinagar, June 25
Police in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district said on Thursday that they have put in place a major technology-backed security arrangement called 'Project Hawk Eye' for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026.
Police officials said the project is a comprehensive surveillance initiative featuring aerial monitoring, advanced facial recognition systems, sniper deployment and hundreds of CCTV cameras.
"Its objective is to provide comprehensive surveillance and security initiatives aimed at maintaining round-the-clock vigilance from the sky to the ground along the entire Yatra route,' said the officials.
Under this initiative, the Anantnag Police have deployed a multi-layered security and surveillance grid by integrating advanced technology with strategic manpower deployment. To maintain aerial surveillance, five 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' (Vantage Observation posts) have been established at vulnerable and sensitive locations to strengthen observation capabilities and enhance area domination.
Twenty-two specially trained sniper teams have also been deployed at designated points to further reinforce the security architecture and ensure effective response preparedness. To augment the surveillance framework, 416 high-resolution CCTV cameras and a Facial Recognition System (FRS) infrastructure have been installed at critical locations along the Yatra route, officials said.
These systems provide continuous real-time monitoring and assist in the timely identification of suspicious movements or activities, thereby strengthening preventive security measures.
"Through Project Hawk Eye, Anantnag Police have effectively positioned their eyes in the sky and on the ground, creating a seamless surveillance network that ensures comprehensive monitoring of the pilgrimage route. The initiative reflects the commitment of Anantnag Police towards leveraging modern technology and professional policing practices to provide a secure environment for all pilgrims," the officials said.
"Anantnag Police remains fully committed to safeguarding every aspect of the pilgrimage and ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of SANJY-2026. The public is urged to cooperate with security personnel and immediately report any suspicious activity to the nearest police establishment for prompt action," officials added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While I appreciate the security measures, I worry about privacy with facial recognition along a pilgrimage route. Hope there are clear guidelines on data use.
Finally, hi-tech security for yatris! Those 'Machan Morchas' and sniper teams are exactly what we need to deter any miscreants. Jai Mata Di! 🙏
Impressive technology deployment, but will it stop a determined adversary? Surveillance is only half the battle; community cooperation is key.
'Hawk Eye'—perfect name! With 416 cameras and real-time monitoring, this should make every pilgrim feel safer. Kudos to the team! 🦅
Great to see technology being used, but we must ensure it doesn't become intrusive. The yatra is a spiritual journey—security shouldn't create fear.
'Eyes in the sky and on the ground'—this is what modern policing looks like! Anantnag Police setting an example for the rest of the country.
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