Jammu, June 19, 2025: Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma, conducted a comprehensive review of security arrangements for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra 2025, set to commence on July 3. Emphasizing pilgrim safety as the top priority, Sharma detailed a multi-layered security plan to ensure a secure and seamless pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave Shrine, located at 3,880 meters in the Kashmir Himalayas.
Enhanced Security Measures
During a security audit across Jammu, Samba, and Kathua districts, DIG Sharma directed police and paramilitary forces to strengthen existing checkpoints (nakas) and identify locations for additional ones, particularly in border areas. “Safety of the pilgrims is our main concern, and adequate arrangements have been made for the same,” Sharma stated. The review covered key sites, including the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas base camp, lodgement centers, langar sites, and yatra routes. Officers were instructed to intensify night patrols, conduct regular mock drills, and maintain close coordination with intelligence agencies, including the Army and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), for real-time information sharing.
Strategic Oversight and Infrastructure
Sharma inspected critical lodgement centers such as Saraswati Dham, Vaishnavi Dham, and Kalika Dham Railway Station in Jammu, along with the Lakhanpur Yatra Reception Centre, Rajbagh, Dayala Chak, and Chichi Mata in Samba and Kathua. CCTV surveillance, parking areas, and route security were also assessed to ensure comprehensive coverage. The DIG emphasized joint nakas and vigilant vehicle checks, especially during early morning and late-night hours, to curb suspicious activities.
Collaborative Efforts
The security framework involves coordinated efforts among police, CRPF, and other agencies to safeguard the 38-day pilgrimage, which will proceed via the 48-km Pahalgam route and the shorter 14-km Baltal route. The first batch of pilgrims will depart from Bhagwati Nagar on July 2. Sharma’s directives align with broader preparations led by the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB) and the Jammu and Kashmir administration, ensuring facilities like RFID counters, medical rooms, and sanitation are in place.
Response to Recent Threats
Following the recent Pahalgam terror attack, security has been significantly bolstered. The administration has deployed 581 CAPF companies, drones, jammers, and K9 units under ‘Operation Shiva’ to protect pilgrims. Sharma’s review reinforces these measures, ensuring a robust response to potential threats while maintaining the sanctity of the yatra.
Commitment to Pilgrim Safety
“The Amarnath Yatra is a sacred journey, and our officers are working day and night with full dedication to ensure its safety,” Sharma said during a visit to Kathua. His focus on multi-agency coordination and proactive vigilance underscores the commitment to a secure pilgrimage experience.
Key Details of Amarnath Yatra 2025
- Duration: July 3 to August 9, 2025
- Routes: Pahalgam (48 km) and Baltal (14 km)
- Base Camp: Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas, Jammu
- Security Lead: DIG Shiv Kumar Sharma, Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range
- Authority: Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB)
