JAMMU, June 25: A comprehensive three-tier security system has been established around the Amarnath base camp in Jammu, managed by the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s security wing. Extensive search and sanitization operations have been conducted to ensure a safe commencement of the annual yatra starting June 28.
The 52-day pilgrimage to the sacred Amarnath cave shrine, situated at an elevation of 3,880 meters, will begin on June 29 from two routes: the traditional 48-kilometre Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag and the shorter but steeper 14-kilometre Baltal route in Ganderbal.
“Adequate security arrangements have been made for the yatra. Three-tier security measures have been put in place for the base camp in the Bhagwati Nagar area in Jammu,” stated Jammu Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Dr. Vinod Kumar. He also mentioned that lodging and registration centers in Jammu City are under strict security.
Police have secured the highway that the yatra will traverse daily. “Security arrangements and area dominations have been enforced on the highway, and all points from borders have been secured,” the office stated. “Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) have been activated, high-rise buildings monitored, and the security apparatus is fully operational. All measures are in place for an incident-free yatra,” added the SSP.
Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu serves as the primary base camp for pilgrims from across the nation before they proceed to the Amarnath cave shrine in the Himalayas of south Kashmir.
Security measures include control of the area by the security wing and restriction of public access. “Body scanners and CCTV cameras, including large 360-degree cameras, have been installed to monitor the camp and its surroundings round-the-clock,” officials noted. Several paramilitary companies are being deployed for security.
The yatra will proceed on the 48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam route in the Anantnag district and the 14-km Baltal route in the Ganderbal district, with enhanced security to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
