Punjab Police Boosts Security for Amarnath Yatra in Pathankot
Pathankot, Punjab – July 3: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has directed the Punjab Police to ensure a smooth and safe journey for devotees participating in the Amarnath Yatra. Special Director General of Police (Special DGP) Law and Order Arpit Shukla chaired a high-level meeting in Pathankot to review security arrangements.
High-Level Security Meeting
The meeting included senior officers from the Punjab Police, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Himachal Pradesh Police, Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Border Security Force (BSF), and other Central Agencies. Discussions focused on police deployment, security measures, traffic management, and disaster management.
Security Measures
Special DGP Arpit Shukla announced the deployment of 550 Punjab Police personnel, SOG, sniper detachments, bomb disposal units, and other commando units. The route has been divided into five sectors for effective management, with four companies of CAPF stationed along the route. Special security arrangements at langar sites include cameras, bulletproof morchas, and SOG deployment.
Coordination and Surveillance
Emphasizing close coordination among officers, security agencies, and civil administration, Shukla highlighted the use of drone surveillance and joint check posts manned by BSF and Pathankot Police. Regular Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs) and anti-tunneling operations are being conducted to prevent threats.
Disaster Management
Comprehensive disaster management arrangements are in place to address natural calamities, with standard operating procedures (SOPs) for handling incidents like fires or flash floods.
Key Attendees
Prominent officers at the meeting included DIG Border Range Rakesh Kaushal, DIG BSF Gurdaspur Shashank Anand, DIG BSF Gurdaspur Yuvraj Dubey, Deputy Commissioner Pathankot Aditya Uppal, SSP Pathankot Suhail Qasim Mir, SSP Kathua Anayat Ali, and Wing Commander AIF Pathankot Narinder Singh.
About Amarnath Yatra
The Amarnath Yatra is an annual 45-day pilgrimage conducted by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board. Devotees of Lord Shiva undertake this journey to the holy cave shrine in the Kashmir Himalayas during July-August.
