27 June, 2025:
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced on Thursday that this year's Amarnath Yatra will have much stronger security measures to ensure the safety of pilgrims. Speaking at Raj Bhawan, he emphasized the administration's aim for a secure and smooth pilgrimage. This will be supported by increased personnel, digital surveillance, and better infrastructure along the Yatra routes.
Sinha explained that a joint force of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Army, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) will manage security. They have set up a three-tier security system from Lakhanpur to the Holy Cave. The digital plan includes RFID-based tracking, eKYC, and high-definition surveillance cameras to monitor the Yatra. He mentioned that every pilgrim and service provider receive an RFID card after completing eKYC. A modern command-and-control center and an extra police control center will watch over the Yatra 24/7.
He noted that this year's security deployment is stronger than in previous years. The verification of service providers has been completed, security at tourist spots has been improved, and mock drills, along with high surveillance patrols, were conducted in advance.
The LG confirmed that pilgrim registration has dropped by over 10 percent compared to last year after the Pahalgam terror attack. He said that registration was going well before the April 22 incident, but then fell by 10.19 percent. However, registrations have recently increased, with over 85,000 people confirming their participation again.
Last year, 5.12 lakh pilgrims took part in the Yatra, the highest number in the past 12 years. So far, there has been a drop of about 35,000 to 40,000 registrations, but the administration is hopeful that numbers will rise.
Regarding helicopter services, Sinha stated they will be suspended this year. Since only 8 percent of pilgrims used helicopters in the past, this decision should not greatly affect the pilgrimage. He mentioned past accidents and stressed that safety remains the top priority.
Insurance for both pilgrims and ponies is being handled by the Shrine Board and the administration. Sinha also recognized the ongoing support and hospitality from the people of Kashmir during the Yatra. He praised local service providers for their enthusiastic participation each year.
On infrastructure, the LG said the roads to the Yatra routes have been widened for better safety. The Baltal and Chandanwari-Pahalgam tracks have been expanded from 4-5 feet to 12 feet. Cross barriers and sturdy railings have also been added to improve the safety of the journey.
