Due to heightened security measures following the Pahalgam attack, helicopter services will not be available for this year’s Amarnath Yatra. The Jammu and Kashmir government has declared a ‘No Flying Zone’ along the Yatra routes from July 1 to August 10. Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan is in Srinagar to assess security protocols for the pilgrimage, which is set to begin on July 3. This year marks the first time since the introduction of helicopter services that pilgrims will not have access to them for reaching the Holy Cave via either the Pahalgam or Baltal routes. This directive, issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department under the Lieutenant Governor’s orders, prohibits all types of aircraft, including drones, UAVs, and balloons. Exceptions are granted for medical evacuations, disaster management, and security surveillance, with detailed SOPs in place.
As part of the security arrangements, Union Home Secretary Mohan led a review meeting at the Jammu and Kashmir Police headquarters in Srinagar. The meeting brought together key officials, including JK Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, DGP Nalin Prabhat, and senior officers from various security agencies. The focus was on the current security situation in Jammu and Kashmir and the finalization of logistical plans to ensure a safe Yatra. The pilgrimage will run for 52 days, concluding on August 9. Pilgrims can choose between the Pahalgam route, which takes approximately two to three days, or the Baltal route, allowing for same-day darshan.
To ensure the safety and well-being of the pilgrims, authorities are implementing a robust, multi-layered security apparatus. This includes a Face Recognition System (FRS), RFID tracking for pilgrims, real-time weather alerts, emergency evacuation procedures, and dedicated health camps.