Amarnath Yatra Security Measures Heightened Ahead of Annual Pilgrimage
Overview of the Amarnath Yatra
The annual pilgrimage to the Amarnath temple in Kashmir is set to commence on July 3, marking the first such event since the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22. This year's journey has become a focal point for central security agencies, which are intensifying precautions under 'Operation Shiva'—a mission initiated by the Indian Army to thwart any potential terrorist activities during the pilgrimage.
Enhanced Security Arrangements
The central government has ordered the deployment of 580 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), comprising around 42,000 personnel, for the annual pilgrimage. Of these, 424 companies will be dispatched to the Union Territory, while the remaining units, including approximately 80 companies relocated during Operation Sindoor, will be assigned to secure the pilgrimage routes, the pilgrims, and areas including Srinagar.
Review of Security Preparations
The Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), K. Pratap Singh, chaired a meeting in Jammu to assess security preparations ahead of the Amarnath Yatra. According to the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB), the 38-day pilgrimage to the cave temple, located at an altitude of 3,880 meters in South Kashmir, will begin on July 3 and conclude on August 9.
The CRPF stated, 'DG G. P. Singh held a crucial meeting with senior officials at the Jammu sector headquarters to evaluate security measures for the Amarnath Yatra 2025.'
Ensuring a Safe Pilgrimage Experience
The CRPF has conducted a thorough inspection of arrangements to ensure a seamless journey for devotees. The Director General visited the Kashmir Valley on Wednesday to strategically review preparations for the smooth operation of the pilgrimage. He also toured key pilgrimage sites, including base and transit camps, assessing ground arrangements and reaffirming the commitment to provide a safe, smooth, and spiritually enriching experience for all pilgrims.
The Amarnath cave can be accessed via two routes: the traditional 48-kilometer path through Pahalgam in Anantnag district of South Kashmir, and the shorter yet steep 14-kilometer Baltal route in Ganderbal district of Central Kashmir.
Official Statements
Commanding Vigilance | Enabling Devotion
— 🇮🇳CRPF🇮🇳 (@crpfindia) May 28, 2025
DG #CRPF Shri @gpsinghips, during the Kashmir visit, conducted a strategic review of preparedness for the Sri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025 to ensure smooth conduct of the Yatra.
He also visited key pilgrimage locations, including the base and… pic.twitter.com/4jI9toU0bo