Image Credit: Official website of the Indian Army
Army Chief Reviews Security Preparedness for Amarnath Yatra in Jammu & Kashmir
India’s Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, conducted a detailed review of the security arrangements for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, underscoring the Army’s preparedness to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage. The high-level visit to Jammu and Kashmir included field inspections, inter-agency briefings, and technology evaluations to enhance operational effectiveness.
Comprehensive Security Assessment
General Dwivedi visited strategic points along both Baltal and Pahalgam routes of the pilgrimage, inspecting forward bases, avalanche-prone areas, helipads, and high-altitude camps. Army personnel briefed him on snow clearance efforts, medical preparedness, and deployment logistics. The review included scenario planning for weather disruptions, mass casualty events, and terrain-based challenges.
Emphasis on Inter-Agency Coordination
The Army Chief stressed the importance of seamless cooperation among the Indian Army, CRPF, BSF, local police, and civil administration. Joint exercises, rapid evacuation drills, and shared communication channels were highlighted as key priorities. General Dwivedi emphasized rehearsals for handling stampedes, landslides, or potential militant threats to ensure quick response capabilities.
Surveillance and Technology Integration
In line with modern security practices, General Dwivedi reviewed the use of drones, CCTV surveillance, ground sensors, and satellite communication for real-time situational awareness. Surveillance infrastructure is being upgraded to monitor pilgrim movement and detect anomalies along the route. Observation posts have also been reinforced to extend line-of-sight visibility in difficult terrain.
Focus on Pilgrim Welfare
Beyond military preparedness, the Army is working with the administration to support critical services such as emergency health care, food and water supply, night shelters, and sanitation facilities. General Dwivedi interacted with local teams responsible for disaster management and public health, reinforcing the importance of compassion-driven logistics in pilgrimage management.
