Security Tightened for Amarnath Yatra 2025 After Recent Terror Attack in Pahalgam

Followed by the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian security forces have stepped up efforts to ensure the safety of pilgrims ahead of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. With just weeks to go before the annual pilgrimage begins, preparations in Jammu and Kashmir are in full swing, and security has been significantly heightened.

The yatra is scheduled to run from July 3 to August 9 this year. Given the heightened threat perception, the Indian Army, along with the CRPF and Jammu and Kashmir Police, is taking no chances. Nearly 50,000 security personnel will be deployed across the 38-day pilgrimage to safeguard devotees along the route and at all key points, including base camps and high-risk zones.

Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Prateik Sharma visited the 15 Corps headquarters in Srinagar earlier this week to review the Army's preparedness. “The Army is taking all necessary steps to ensure that the journey is fully safe and smooth,” officials confirmed.

Every possible measure will be taken by security agencies. Surveillance will be boosted with drones, helicopters, and continuous CCTV monitoring. Every pilgrim and pony handler will be issued digital ID cards, and digital mapping technology will help track movements in real time. The entire yatra route has been jointly audited by the Army, CRPF, and local police to ensure maximum security.

Among the new measures in place this year:

* All approach roads connected to national highways will be blocked during the yatra.

* Escort convoys and signal jammers will be deployed for added protection.

* Quick Reaction Teams, bomb disposal squads, K9 units, and drone patrols will remain active throughout the pilgrimage.

* Combined Police Control Room (PCR) vehicles will be stationed at regular intervals.

The yatra’s history of being targeted by terror groups are there, therefore security remains a major concern. Since 1993, there have been 36 attacks on the Amarnath Yatra. The deadliest occurred in 2000, when Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists struck the Pahalgam base camp, killing 32 and injuring 60. Another major incident happened in 2017, when gunmen opened fire on a bus carrying pilgrims, killing seven and injuring dozens more.

Faith and devotion remain unshaken, despite the threats. Over five lakh devotees undertook the pilgrimage last year, and that number is expected to rise this season.

Officials reiterated that the safety of the pilgrims is the government’s top priority. “Our focus is to ensure that every devotee reaches the holy cave safely, without fear or disruption,” said a senior security official. “We are fully committed to a peaceful and secure yatra this year.”