J&K declares all Amarnath Yatra routes as 'no fly zones' between July 1 and Aug 10

IANS June 17, 2025 352 views

Jammu & Kashmir has imposed a 40-day aerial ban over all Amarnath Yatra routes starting July 1. The order prohibits drones, balloons and UAVs to ensure pilgrim safety, with exceptions only for emergencies. This comes after security consultations between MHA and J&K administration. Officials confirm all arrangements are set for the annual pilgrimage to the Himalayan shrine.

"Flying of any kind of aviation platforms including drones is prohibited" – J&K Home Department Order
Srinagar, June 17: J&K administration on Tuesday declared all Amarnath Yatra routes as ‘no fly zones’ between July 1 and August 10 as a security measure to provide foolproof security to the upcoming Yatra.

Key Points

1

No-fly zone enforced on Pahalgam & Baltal routes

2

Exceptions for medical & security operations

3

MHA-backed security overhaul

4

Ban effective July 1-August 10

An order issued by the Home Department said that the Lt Governor (L-G) has given strict security directives regarding aerial activity during the upcoming Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2025, declaring all Yatra routes as “No Flying Zones” between July 1 and August 10, 2025.

“In view of the forthcoming Shri Amarnathji Yatra, 2025, which is scheduled we.f. 03.07.2025 to 09.08.2025, various security arrangements are being undertaken for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the Yatra, and all the stakeholders have discussed the prevailing security scenario and have proposed additional logistics provisions,” reads an official order.

It added that the Ministry of Home Affairs have also advised that the entire route of Shri Amarnathji Yatra, 2025 may be declared as ‘No Flying Zone’ w.e.f. July 01 to August 10, 2025.

The government said that to ensure strengthened security during the Shri Amarnathji Yatra, 2025, all the routes of Shri Amarnathji Yatra are hereby declared as ‘No Flying Zone’ including both Pahalgam axis and Baltal axis and thus, flying of any kind of aviation platforms and devices including UAVs, Drones, Balloons, etc. is prohibited.

“These restrictions will not be applicable in the cases of medical evacuation, disaster management and for surveillance by security forces. A detailed SOP for such exceptions will be issued subsequently,” it said.

Officials have claimed that all security arrangements are in place for the smooth conduct of the Amarnath Yatra.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Good decision by the administration! After the 2022 drone attack, we can't take any chances with pilgrims' safety. The Amarnath Yatra is sacred for millions of Hindus and must be protected at all costs. Jai Bhole! 🙏
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Priya M.
While security is important, I hope this doesn't affect emergency services like air ambulances. The terrain is dangerous enough - medical evacuations should be quick when needed. Glad to see exceptions mentioned though.
A
Amit S.
Smart move. Last year my uncle went for Yatra and said security was tight but reassuring. These measures will boost confidence among pilgrims. Kashmir tourism is reviving and such steps help maintain peace.
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Sunita R.
I appreciate the government's efforts but wish they'd also focus on improving basic facilities - better toilets, drinking water and medical camps along the route. Security + comfort should go hand in hand.
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Vikram J.
As someone from Jammu, I've seen how important this Yatra is for our economy too. The no-fly zone might inconvenience some, but it's a small price for safety. Hope our Kashmiri brothers continue welcoming pilgrims warmly.
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Neha T.
The detailed SOP for exceptions shows good planning. Security forces deserve our full support during the Yatra. Maybe they can use this opportunity to showcase Kashmir's beauty to pilgrims through safe tourism initiatives too.

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Tags:
Amarnath Yatra 2025 Jammu Kashmir security No fly zone Pilgrim safety Drone ban