Jammu Deputy Inspector General Shridhar Patil has instructed police officials to strengthen vigil along the Pathankot-Jammu National Highway and at border points in view of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. The directive was issued during a review of the border protection grid, where Patil emphasised the need for intensified security measures to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
Enhanced security measures along the highway and border
Patil ordered all officials to intensify cordon and search operations, strengthen naka checking on the NH and border points, and launch an intensive drive for verification of tenants and suspects without valid IDs. He also stressed regular firing practice, map-reading, and mock drills with other security agencies, including drills on railway tracks and stations. The DIG further emphasised strict implementation of standard operating procedures for village defence guards, measures to counter drones and tunnels, and synergy with CAPFs and sister agencies. He called for round-the-clock alertness during the yatra to ensure its safe and secure conduct.
Reasi SSP reviews Vaishno Devi security grid
In a parallel move, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Reasi, Mukund Tibrewal, conducted a comprehensive on-foot security assessment of the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage track and the Bhawan area on Sunday. Accompanied by SP Katra Kameshwar Puri and officials from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Tibrewal personally reviewed the entire security grid along the pilgrimage route. He closely inspected various ingress points and assessed the effectiveness of pilgrim screening, frisking procedures, and the operational readiness of baggage scanning systems. He also reviewed the deployment and alertness of security personnel at key locations along the track.
Security audit of helipad and accommodation facilities
The SSP visited the Sanjichhat area and conducted a security audit of the helipad and its surrounding perimeter to ensure the safety of helicopter operations. He further inspected the accommodation facilities of security personnel deployed at the Bhawan and along the yatra track, interacted with the jawans, and reviewed their living conditions and welfare arrangements. Tibrewal stressed upon all deployed personnel to maintain the highest level of vigilance in view of the increased pilgrim influx during the summer vacation. He emphasised the need for regular and effective patrolling along the yatra route, particularly during odd hours, to maintain a strong deterrent against any nefarious designs of anti-national elements.
