Indian authorities have stepped up security measures for the annual Amarnath Yatra, which begins today in Jammu and Kashmir, following an April 22 attack in Pahalgam that killed over 20 people, mostly tourists.
The 38-day Hindu pilgrimage attracts thousands of devotees from across India to the cave shrine of Amarnath, located 3,880 meters above sea level.
The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi aims not only to protect pilgrims but also to restore confidence in Kashmir’s tourism industry, which continues to suffer from long-standing tensions with Pakistan.
This year, the Yatra’s duration has been reduced from 52 to 38 days in a bid to limit exposure to risks and enhance overall security.
Pilgrims can access the shrine via two main routes: the traditional path from Pahalgam in Anantnag district and the shorter route from Baltal in Ganderbal district.
To secure these routes, the government has deployed 580 paramilitary units, drones, dog squads, snipers, armored vehicles, and established multiple checkpoints.
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, a key artery for the pilgrimage, will be monitored in real time using advanced surveillance technologies.
Additional safety protocols include digital mapping of the pilgrimage routes and facial recognition systems using digital identity documents.
Pilgrims will be transported in bulletproof vehicles and accompanied by personnel trained in evacuation, first aid, and emergency response.
Considering the risk of landslides and roadblocks during the monsoon season, authorities have set up shelter areas along the route. Participation is limited to individuals aged 13 to 70.
The enhanced security follows a string of deadly incidents during religious gatherings in India.
In June, a stampede during the Jagannath temple procession in Odisha killed three and injured over 50, sparking accusations of negligence and triggering a formal investigation.
