Security forces have been placed on high alert ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra 2025, following intelligence inputs indicating a possible terror threat. The pilgrimage, scheduled to begin on June 29, will see a multi-tiered security blanket covering the Pahalgam and Baltal routes in Jammu and Kashmir, as authorities work to ensure the safety of thousands of pilgrims.
Intelligence agencies have warned that Pakistan-based terrorist outfits such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) may attempt to disrupt the yatra. These inputs have triggered a massive mobilization of security personnel and a review of threat perception by both central and state authorities.
In a recent high-level meeting, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed security preparedness and instructed agencies to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to any threat. “No compromise will be accepted when it comes to the security of the pilgrims,” Shah emphasized.
Over 50,000 security personnel, including units from the CRPF, BSF, ITBP, Army, and Jammu and Kashmir Police, have been deployed along the pilgrimage routes. Road Opening Parties (ROPs), anti-drone technology, sniffer dogs, and surveillance drones are actively monitoring the route. Mobile bunkers, bulletproof vehicles, and Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) are also in place.
Security forces have strengthened patrols around the base camps, langars, and halting points along the 48-kilometre Pahalgam route and the 14-kilometre Baltal route. Pilgrims will be allowed to proceed only after thorough identity verification and medical checks.
In a significant technological upgrade, this year’s yatra will implement RFID-based tracking of pilgrims, ensuring real-time monitoring and quicker emergency responses. This system allows authorities to keep track of the movement of pilgrims across the route, enhancing both security and coordination.
Local law enforcement is also working closely with village leaders, shrine board volunteers, and tour operators. Awareness campaigns are being run to encourage locals to report any suspicious activities.
Meanwhile, strict traffic regulations and movement restrictions have been imposed on certain routes to facilitate the smooth and secure transit of pilgrims and security convoys.
The Amarnath Yatra is not only a religious journey but also a critical cultural event that symbolizes communal harmony and faith. Despite the heightened terror alert, authorities assure that comprehensive and preventive steps have been taken to ensure the yatra is conducted safely and peacefully.
