Samba Police to Boost Patrolling, Surveillance Ahead of Amarnath Yatra

In a significant move to bolster security ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra, the senior superintendent of police in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba district has mandated increased patrolling and the establishment of random night ambush checkpoints along potential infiltration routes. This decision comes in the wake of heightened threat perceptions following a series of terror attacks in Reasi, Kathua, and Doda districts, which resulted in the loss of 10 lives, including that of a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, and left 50 injured. Additionally, two terrorists were neutralized in these incidents.

The directive, aimed at ensuring the peaceful conduct of the pilgrimage set to commence on June 29, was issued by Senior Superintendent of Police Samba Vinay Kumar during a joint security review meeting on yatra preparations. Kumar emphasized the need for heightened alertness, effective teamwork, and real-time intelligence sharing among all officers to thwart any attempts by anti-national elements and their collaborators across the international border.

Key measures outlined for the enhanced security arrangements include round-the-clock vigilance on highways, activation of highway patrol vehicles, reinforcement of border and joint checkpoints, and area domination with army and paramilitary forces. Additionally, strategic positioning of quick reaction teams at critical locations has been instructed to ensure rapid response capabilities.

Officers have also been directed to intensify verification processes for hotels, restaurants, lodgements, tenants, and labourers from outside the Union Territory near the border areas. A comprehensive census of dhabas on highways and areas surrounding lodgement centres and langer sites is to be conducted to further secure the region.

Kumar's directives underscore the importance of maintaining heightened vigil and coordination during the Amarnath Yatra. He stressed on close collaboration among all security agencies to effectively counteract any plans by anti-national and anti-social elements aiming to disrupt peace and harmony during this significant pilgrimage.

The measures reflect a proactive approach by law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims and residents alike in the face of potential threats. With these enhanced security arrangements in place, authorities are committed to facilitating a peaceful and secure Amarnath Yatra for all participants.