Examiner News Desk | Srinagar:
Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, V K Birdi on Monday reviewed security and logistical arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Shri Amarnathji Yatra (SANJY-2026) and upcoming Muharram observances across the Kashmir Valley during a high-level meeting held at the Police Control Room (PCR), Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by Range Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) of Kashmir Zone, SSP PCR Kashmir, Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) from Anantnag, Srinagar, Ganderbal, Kulgam, Pulwama, Baramulla, Kupwara, Shopian, Bandipora, Budgam, Sopore, Handwara and Awantipora, along with other senior police officers.
During the meeting, officers presented detailed briefings on district-wise preparedness, security deployment plans and logistical arrangements for the annual pilgrimage. Discussions focused on measures aimed at ensuring the safety and convenience of pilgrims and the efficient management of both Yatra routes.
Reviewing the overall security framework, IGP Birdi emphasized strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and effective coordination among all security and civil agencies. He directed officers to remain prepared for any contingency, including operational challenges, natural disasters and other unforeseen situations, through a coordinated and swift response mechanism.
Highlighting pilgrim safety as the top priority, the IGP reviewed the deployment strategy and preparedness of Road Opening Parties (ROPs). He called for intensified surveillance, regular area domination exercises and continuous monitoring of highways and other vulnerable stretches along the pilgrimage routes.
The IGP also instructed officers to strengthen night-time security measures and maintain a high level of alertness to prevent any untoward incidents during the Yatra period.
To further enhance operational readiness, Birdi directed the conduct of mock drills to assess the effectiveness of existing SOPs and identify areas requiring improvement. He also stressed the need for comprehensive security arrangements at all Yatra camps, including the installation of surveillance systems at key locations and adequate deployment of personnel for crowd management and emergency response.
The meeting also reviewed preparations for Muharram observances across the Valley. The IGP underscored the importance of adequate security measures, effective traffic regulation and close coordination with the civil administration and other stakeholder agencies to facilitate the peaceful conduct of Muharram processions.
Officers were instructed to maintain close liaison with procession organizers, remain vigilant and ensure all necessary arrangements are in place to safeguard public safety and convenience.
Concluding the meeting, IGP Kashmir called upon officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, vigilance and coordination throughout the Shri Amarnathji Yatra and Muharram period to ensure both events are conducted peacefully and smoothly.
