Srinagar, June 25, 2025 – The Jammu and Kashmir Police, in collaboration with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), conducted a comprehensive mock drill at the Yatri Niwas in Pantha Chowk, Srinagar, on June 25, 2025, as part of heightened security preparations for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025, set to begin on July 3, 2025. The exercise, overseen by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar, Dr. G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy, aimed to test coordination and emergency response capabilities to ensure a safe pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave.
Strengthening Security Protocols
The mock drill simulated potential security scenarios to assess the readiness of forces tasked with protecting pilgrims along the Pahalgam and Baltal routes. According to SSP Srinagar, the exercise focused on enhancing inter-agency coordination, rapid response, and crisis management, critical in light of the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. The drill included simulated evacuations, crowd control, and threat neutralization, with participation from specialized units like bomb disposal squads and quick reaction teams.
IGP Kashmir, Vidhi Kumar Birdi, emphasized that this year’s multi-layered security setup is more robust than 2024, incorporating AI-based facial recognition, drone surveillance, and over 45,000 personnel from the J&K Police, CRPF, ITBP, and Indian Army. The Pantha Chowk Yatri Niwas, a key transit camp for pilgrims, has been fortified with additional checkpoints and surveillance systems to ensure foolproof security.
Context and Preparations
The Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, a 38-day pilgrimage to the 3,880-meter-high cave housing the ice Shivling, is expected to draw lakhs of devotees, with 3.31 lakh already registered. The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB) and J&K administration, under Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, have upgraded facilities at Pantha Chowk, including expanded capacity for lodging, medical services, and sanitation. The mock drill aligns with broader security measures, including a no-fly zone from July 1 to August 10, 2025, and intensified cordon and search operations along the routes.
Official Statements and Community Assurance
Dr. Chakravarthy stated, “The joint mock drill at Pantha Chowk tested our preparedness and coordination, ensuring we are ready for any eventuality during the Yatra.” Lieutenant Governor Sinha, who inspected the Pantha Chowk Yatri Niwas construction on May 5, 2025, praised the forces for their commitment, urging pilgrims to participate without fear. Local communities have also expressed support, reinforcing the region’s hospitality and reliance on tourism for economic growth.
