Prioritize safe, secure movement of pilgrims: IGP

IGP Kashmir chairing a meeting at PCR.
IGP Kashmir chairing a meeting at PCR.

Excelsior Correspondent

Srinagar, June 25: Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, VK Birdi, today reviewed the deployment and operational readiness ahead of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY), emphasizing the prioritization of the safe and secure movement of pilgrims.
In this regard, a meeting was held to take stock of the arrangements for the peaceful conduct of SANJY-2024 at the Conference Hall of the Police Control Room in Kashmir.
The participating officers briefed the IGP Kashmir through a PowerPoint Presentation (PPT) on the security plan, including the specific requirements of their respective districts and the security arrangements put in place for the smooth conduct of the Amarnath Yatra.
The meeting was attended by DIG Central Kashmir Range, DIG North Kashmir Range, DIG South Kashmir Range, all the district SSPs of Kashmir Zone, SSP Traffic City, SSP Traffic Rural, SSP Security, SSP APCR, and SP Telecommunication.
While directing the officers, the IGP closely examined the SOPs formulated for coordinating security efforts and ensuring a unified approach to managing exigencies arising from operational, natural, and man-made disasters.
Emphasizing the safe and secure movement of pilgrims as the top priority, Birdi reviewed the deployment and operational readiness of the Road Opening Parties, stressing the need for vigilant patrolling and monitoring along highways.
He also instructed the officers to ensure robust night dominations to prevent any untoward incidents during the night.
IGP Kashmir also reviewed the schedule and cutoff timings for the vehicle-bound as well as foot yatra, which are crucial for maintaining a structured and secure flow of pilgrims along the designated routes.
He directed that mock drills be conducted based on SOPs to evaluate their effectiveness on the ground and identify areas for improvement.
Additionally, DIG SKR and DIG CKR were directed to assess the High-Density Counter Operation Plans in their respective zones to ensure comprehensive security coverage and timely response to potential threats.
“He stressed further strengthening the security grid and checking on Anti-National Elements (ANEs) and terrorist associates by generating actionable intelligence,” the police said in a statement.
IGP Kashmir urged all officers to remain vigilant and proactive in their duties, emphasizing the importance of coordination and timely response to any potential threats. He also directed the officers to ensure robust security measures at all camping sites by installing CCTV cameras at all strategic locations.
“The IGP stressed to the officers the importance of ensuring adequate manpower at each yatra camp.”