Anantnag, Jun 26: In preparation for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, Anantnag Police, in collaboration with other security forces, conducted comprehensive mock drills Wednesday at various locations across Anantnag district, including Pahalgam, the National Highway, Anantnag town, and base camps.
The drills aimed to assess the preparedness and coordination between various agencies responsible for ensuring the smooth and secure conduct of the Yatra.
Senior officers supervised the exercises, which tested the efficiency of communication systems, emergency evacuation procedures, and the overall effectiveness of the security arrangements. The drills focused on key security measures, including anti-terrorism, law and order, and anti-IED protocols.
“These exercises demonstrate our strong coordination with CAPF and other agencies, crucial for ensuring the Yatra’s security. We reassure all pilgrims that we are fully prepared and dedicated to their safety. Please follow security guidelines and cooperate with our personnel. Your security is our priority, and we are working tirelessly to ensure a peaceful and successful Yatra”, said a Senior Police Officer.
The Amarnath Yatra, a popular annual Hindu pilgrimage to the holy cave shrine of Lord Shiva in the Kashmir Himalayas, is scheduled to commence on the 29th of June.
Earlier on Monday, Inspector General of Police Kashmir Zone VK Birdi took stock of the arrangements for the peaceful conduct of SANJY-2024 during a meeting held at the Conference Hall of Police Control Room Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by DIG Central Kashmir Range, DIG North Kashmir Range, DIG South Kashmir Range, all district SSsP of Kashmir Zone, SSP Traffic City, SSP Traffic Rural, SSP Security, SSP APCR, SP Telecommunication.
At the outset, the participating officers briefed the IGP Kashmir through Power PowerPoint presentation (PPT) of the security plan including the specific requirements of their respective districts & security arrangements put in place for the smooth conduct of Amarnath Yatra-2024.
While directing the officers, VK Birdi closely examined the SOPs formulated for coordinating security efforts and ensuring a unified approach in managing exigencies arising out of operational, natural & manmade disasters. Emphasizing the safe & secure movement of pilgrims, being the top priority, VK Birdi reviewed the deployment and operational readiness of the Road Opening Parties, stressing the need for vigilant patrolling and monitoring along highways. V.K Birdi also instructed the officers to ensure robust night dominations to prevent any untoward incidents during the night.
IGP Kashmir also reviewed the schedule and cutoff timings for the vehicle bound as well as foot yatra which is crucial for maintaining a structured and secure flow of pilgrims along the designated routes.
He also directed that mock drills be conducted based on SOPs to evaluate their effectiveness on the ground and identify areas for improvement. Besides, DIG SKR & DIG CKR were directed to assess the High-Density Counter Operation Plans in their respective zones to ensure comprehensive security coverage and timely response to potential threats. He stressed further strengthening the security grid and checking on Anti anti-national elements (ANEs) & terrorist associates by generating actionable intelligence.
IGP Kashmir urged all officers to remain vigilant and proactive in their duties, emphasizing the importance of coordination and timely response to any potential threats. He also directed the officers to ensure robust security measures at all camping sites by installing CCTV Cameras at all strategic locations. The IGP stressed to the officers the importance of ensuring adequate manpower at each yatra camp.
The meeting concluded with the IGP expressing confidence in the capabilities of the police to provide a safe, smooth & secure environment for the yatra, ensuring that pilgrims can undertake their spiritual journey with great fervor & peace of mind.
