Army Chief reviews security ahead of Amarnath Yatra

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Upendra Dwivedi on Sunday reviewed the preparations for the annual Amarnath Yatra, which is scheduled to begin on July 3 and for which the UT and Centre are making special security arrangements.

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In addition, General Dwivedi assessed the Kashmir region’s overall security grid and spoke with officers about the region’s current security state.

“General Dwivedi reviewed the security grid in the Kashmir region and reviewed preparedness for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. He was briefed on the current operational dynamics and the broader strategic landscape, including a demonstration on the integration of advanced technologies in operations, leading to smarter decisions and enhanced surveillance and response mechanisms,” the Army posted on X.

The Army said the COAS praised all ranks of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps “for their unwavering commitment in ensuring peace and stability through decisive counter-terror operations and initiatives aimed at the development of the region and uplift of the local population”.

The security arrangements for the pilgrimage are being given special emphasis due to the April 22 attack in Pahalgam by terrorists. The police’s Special Operations Group (SOG), CRPF and Army will protect the convoys of pilgrims that will pass through many forest areas along the Jammu-Srinagar national highway.

Besides, the lodgement centres of the pilgrims on their way to the Valley are also being secured to ensure there is no untoward incident. The administration is also gearing up to provide all facilities to the pilgrims who will visit the holy cave shrine.

Secretary, Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, conducted a tour of the Baltal axis to assess the sanitation facilities being put in place for the upcoming pilgrimage.

Asad ordered full deployment of sanitation personnel with proper supervision by the designated nodal officers.

Meanwhile, Samba Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma visited three key lodgement centres — Chichi Mata Temple, Nonath Ashram and Daini Transit camp — to review arrangements.

The centre at the Chichi Mata Temple has a capacity for around 800 pilgrims. The DC took stock of civic amenities, including toilets, bathing units and others. At Nonath, the issue of water shortage was flagged for urgent action.

The administrations of the district from where the pilgrims will pass have been asked to ensure proper arrangements.