Comprehensive assessment conducted in Jammu, Samba, and Kathua to ensure smooth and secure pilgrimage
Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, (DD): In preparation for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Jammu-Samba-Kathua (JSK) Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma, IPS, convened a high-level security review at the Lakhanpur Yatra Reception Centre and other key locations across the region.
The review covered strategic points including Rajbagh, Dayala Chak, Hiranagar, Ghagwal, Nonath, Chichi Mata, Samba, Vijaypur, Bari Brahmana, Kaluchak, Gangyal, and Satwari Chowk in the districts of Jammu, Samba, and Kathua.
Sharma personally inspected lodgement centres and langar (community kitchen) sites to evaluate readiness and coordination. He underscored the need for joint efforts between police, paramilitary forces, intelligence agencies, and civil administration to ensure a safe and incident-free pilgrimage.
Security Measures Strengthened
During the review, Sharma instructed all officers to focus on the safety of pilgrims en route, particularly at the Bhagwati Nagar base camp and designated accommodation and langar sites. He directed implementation of “Operation Third Eye” in all jurisdictions, involving coordinated surveillance and intelligence-sharing to strengthen security.
Officers were also told to reinforce existing nakas (checkpoints), especially in border areas and urban centres during night hours, and to identify additional points where new nakas may be established. He stressed the importance of rigorous vehicle checks during early morning and late-night hours, and called for alertness to suspicious activity by vendors or others.
The DIG highlighted the necessity of maintaining a high level of vigilance throughout the duration of the Yatra. Regular mock drills and situation reviews were advised to test preparedness and ensure seamless execution of contingency plans.
He also instructed that effective liaison be maintained with intelligence agencies, the Army, paramilitary forces, and other central bodies, and that all intelligence inputs be shared in real time. Establishing joint nakas with multiple agencies was recommended to enhance coordination and security outcomes.
The review meeting was attended by officers from across the JSK Range, representing their respective jurisdictions in Jammu, Samba, and Kathua (DD)