More Than 180 Paramilitary Units Deployed in Jammu for Amarnath Yatra Security

As the sacred Amarnath Yatra 2025 is set to begin on July 3, authorities have ramped up security across Jammu and Kashmir to ensure the safety of pilgrims. More than 180 paramilitary companies have been deployed in the Jammu region alone, according to Inspector General of Police (IGP) Bhim Sen Tuti.

Strengthening Security with a Multi-Layered Approach

The security arrangements cover all critical areas, including the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu, the Jammu–Srinagar highway, and both pilgrimage routes—Pahalgam, which spans 48 kilometers, and Baltal, which stretches 14 kilometers. This comprehensive setup involves road opening parties to clear highways, CCTV cameras installed at vital points, and surveillance through drones and monitoring towers.

Additionally, bomb disposal squads, quick reaction teams, sniffer dogs, and signal jammers have been strategically positioned. The authorities are also enforcing a strict convoy-based movement for all pilgrims, advising them to travel in organized groups to ensure maximum safety.

Record-High Deployment for Pilgrim Safety

This year’s deployment is one of the largest in the history of the Amarnath Yatra. A total of 581 paramilitary companies have been stationed across Jammu and Kashmir, which means approximately 40,000 to 50,000 security personnel are on duty to safeguard the pilgrimage.

The enhanced security comes in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, where 26 civilians lost their lives. This tragic incident prompted the government to launch Operation Sindoor, a major crackdown on terrorist hideouts in the region.

Focused Security Measures in Jammu

Security measures in Jammu have been intensified with strict protocols in place. Traffic control advisories are being enforced, along with fixed cut-off timings for vehicles heading toward the Kashmir Valley. Pilgrims departing from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp are required to travel in convoys, with departures scheduled between 4:00 AM and 4:30 AM each day.

The highway stretch from Lakhanpur to Banihal is under continuous surveillance, monitored through CCTV cameras and road opening parties deployed along the route. Security presence has been strengthened at accommodation centers, community kitchens (langars), and all major congregation points in Jammu city.

Deployment of Forces Across the Region

A significant number of forces have been deployed to manage the Yatra security. Among the 581 companies, 219 belong to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), 143 to the Border Security Force (BSF), 97 to the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), 62 to the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and 60 to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

In addition to the manpower, advanced technology like drones for aerial surveillance, bomb detection squads, sniffer dogs, and signal jammers have been employed to monitor and secure the entire route effectively.

Community Support Is Crucial

Along with the heavy security presence, the cooperation of the local population is also being considered vital for the smooth conduct of the Yatra. Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has pointed out that maintaining peace is not only the responsibility of the forces but also of the local residents, particularly in sensitive areas like Pahalgam.

The administration has urged locals to support the security forces and pilgrims by being vigilant and reporting any suspicious activities promptly.

Technology and Vigilance Working Together

The combination of advanced technology and human vigilance forms the core of this year’s security plan. Drones, CCTV cameras, signal jammers, and mobile surveillance systems are working hand-in-hand with physical security forces like bomb squads, road opening teams, quick response forces, and dog squads.

The primary goal remains clear: to ensure a safe, peaceful, and hassle-free pilgrimage for every devotee making the journey to the holy Amarnath cave.

Yatra Set to Begin with Maximum Security

The first convoy of pilgrims will leave the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu on July 2, a day ahead of the official start of the Yatra on July 3. Authorities continue to urge all devotees to strictly follow safety protocols and travel only in authorized convoys to minimize risks.

This year’s Amarnath Yatra marks the most extensive security deployment ever witnessed for the pilgrimage. The government’s commitment to providing a secure environment reflects its determination to safeguard the spiritual journey of thousands of pilgrims visiting the holy shrine.