Srinagar, July 10, 2025 – In a pioneering move to bolster security for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, the Kulgam Police have deployed geo-fencing surveillance along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway (NH-44) for the first time. This advanced technology, coupled with facial recognition systems, aims to enhance pilgrim safety by monitoring movements, detecting suspicious activities in real time, and enabling rapid response to potential threats. The initiative comes in the wake of heightened security concerns following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives.Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kulgam, Sahil Sarangal, emphasized that the geo-fencing system creates virtual perimeters that trigger alerts when monitored individuals or devices enter or exit designated zones. This measure is part of a broader multi-layered security framework for the 38-day pilgrimage, which began on July 3 and will conclude on August 9, ensuring a safe and seamless experience for devotees trekking to the 3,880-meter-high Amarnath cave shrine.Geo-Fencing: A Technological LeapThe introduction of geo-fencing marks a significant upgrade in the security apparatus for the Amarnath Yatra, which has seen over 1.11 lakh pilgrims visit the shrine in its first six days. The technology allows real-time tracking of pilgrim convoys along the traditional 48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag district and the shorter 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district. By integrating facial recognition systems, the Kulgam Police can identify potential threats swiftly, enhancing the safety of pilgrims traveling through sensitive areas like Kulgam.SSP Sarangal stated, “The advanced system is designed to monitor pilgrim movement, detect suspicious activity in real time, and facilitate rapid response to potential threats”. This initiative complements other security measures, including the deployment of 581 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) companies, anti-drone systems, and intensified patrolling along the yatra routes.Broader Security FrameworkThe Amarnath Yatra’s security has been fortified significantly this year, described as the most robust since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Following the Pahalgam attack, authorities have implemented a multi-tiered security plan, including:
- Deployment of 180 CAPF companies in the Jammu division, 30 more than in previous years.
- Enhanced air defense systems and counter-drone measures to secure the pilgrimage routes.
- Joint control rooms with personnel from the Army, police, CAPF, and civil administration.
- Operation Shiva, a comprehensive security initiative by the Army to ensure foolproof protection.
- Specialized units like the CRPF’s “May I Help You” women teams and mountain rescue units at Baltal.
On July 9, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma, conducted a security review, urging personnel to maintain high vigilance. The Jammu and Kashmir Police have also issued advisories, encouraging pilgrims to travel in designated convoys from Bhagwati Nagar, Baltal, and Nunwan base camps to minimize risks.Impact and ContextThe geo-fencing initiative is particularly significant in Kulgam, a district along the NH-44, which serves as a critical transit route for pilgrims. The technology ensures continuous surveillance of this stretch, addressing vulnerabilities exposed by the Pahalgam attack. The Kulgam Police’s efforts align with the broader goal of restoring pilgrim confidence, which saw a 10.19% dip in registrations post-attack, as noted by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.Despite initial concerns, the yatra has witnessed strong participation, with 16,720 pilgrims visiting the shrine on July 9 alone, bringing the total to 128,000 in the first week. The administration’s proactive measures, including 15 on-the-spot registration counters, lodging for over 50,000 pilgrims, and RFID tags for safety, have contributed to a smooth pilgrimage.Key Data: Amarnath Yatra Security Measures
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Geo-Fencing Deployment | Implemented along Srinagar-Jammu NH-44 by Kulgam Police |
| Technology Used | Geo-fencing, facial recognition systems for real-time monitoring |
| Pilgrim Footfall | Over 1.11 lakh in first six days; 16,720 on July 9, 2025 |
| Security Forces | 581 CAPF companies, Army, J&K Police, CRPF, ITBP, JKSDRF |
| Additional Measures | Anti-drone systems, air defense, Operation Shiva, women commando teams |
| Routes Covered | Nunwan-Pahalgam (48 km), Baltal (14 km) |
| Yatra Duration | July 3 to August 9, 2025 |
Official StatementsSSP Kulgam, Sahil Sarangal, told reporters, “The geo-fencing technology creates virtual perimeters that trigger alerts whenever a monitored individual or device enters or exits designated zones, ensuring enhanced security for pilgrims”. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, addressing the media on July 3, said, “Undeterred by recent terrorist activities, devotees of Lord Shiva are arriving in huge numbers, demonstrating their immense faith”.KeywordsKulgam Police, geo-fencing, Amarnath Yatra, security, facial recognition, Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, Pahalgam terror attack, pilgrims, SSP Sahil Sarangal, multi-layered security, Operation Shiva, CAPF, anti-drone systems, Nunwan-Pahalgam, Baltal
Conclusion
The Kulgam Police’s deployment of geo-fencing and facial recognition systems represents a significant technological advancement in securing the Amarnath Yatra. By monitoring the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway and integrating with a robust multi-layered security framework, these measures ensure the safety of over 1.11 lakh pilgrims who have visited the shrine so far. As the yatra progresses, the combination of advanced technology and heightened vigilance underscores Jammu and Kashmir’s commitment to a safe and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage.
