Security for Eid-ul-Azha, Amarnath Yatra reviewed in J&K

Kashmir Police chief VK Birdi on Friday reviewed security and logistical arrangements for the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha and the annual Amarnath yatra, a police spokesperson said.

During a meeting at PCR Kashmir, district SSPs gave detailed presentations on security preparedness, deployment plans, traffic regulation, crowd management measures, and other logistical arrangements for Eid-ul-Azha celebrations and the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY), the spokesperson said.

Highlighting the significance of the Eid celebrations, Birdi, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone, directed officers to implement robust crowd management measures at mosques and major congregation points across the Valley.

Birdi emphasised the need for adequate security measures to regulate entry and exit points, ensure public safety, and deploy security personnel at sensitive locations to avoid overcrowding, the spokesperson said. He said the IGP also instructed field officers to intensify surveillance, conduct random checks at vulnerable spots, and enhance patrolling to counter any potential security threats during the festive period.

Reviewing arrangements for the yatra, the IGP emphasised coordinated planning and preparedness, particularly regarding the safety and security of the yatris, the spokesperson said.

He said Birdi instructed officers to deploy anti-sabotage teams, and enhance surveillance and threat detection capabilities by utilising advanced technologies and real-time monitoring on both pilgrimage routes.

Birdi underscored the significance of stakeholder collaboration and implementing robust contingency plans to effectively address any unforeseen challenges, providing insights into the necessary Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that must be followed throughout the pilgrimage.