Nation

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; New Delhi, June 13: The commencement of this year’s Amarnath Yatra on July 3, the authorities have intensified preparations to ensure the pilgrimage is conducted smoothly and safely. Security measures are being significantly strengthened along the entire route to provide maximum protection to thousands of devotees expected to take part in the annual pilgrimage.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level meeting in New Delhi on Friday to review the security arrangements for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on enhancing surveillance, improving coordination among security agencies and ensuring the safety of pilgrims throughout the journey.

The new security strategy, information related to pilgrims, security personnel and volunteers will be collected in advance and verified through central intelligence agencies. The government is introducing mandatory QR code-based verification through the ‘Pehchan’ application to strengthen identification and monitoring systems.

The same verification procedure will also apply to individuals involved in selling or distributing food items along the pilgrimage route. Officials believe that these measures will help maintain stricter security standards and prevent any possible security threats during the religious event.

The entire Amarnath Yatra route will be declared a no-fly zone for the full 57-day duration of the pilgrimage. As a result, helicopter services will not be available for devotees this year.

The enhanced security framework reflects the government’s focus on ensuring a peaceful and incident-free pilgrimage. With advanced monitoring systems, stricter identity verification and increased deployment of security forces, authorities are making extensive arrangements to safeguard every aspect of the Amarnath Yatra as thousands of pilgrims prepare to undertake the sacred journey.