Early Times Report
Jammu, June 3: In a major security-related decision ahead of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has declared the entire pilgrimage corridor a "No-Fly Zone" and suspended helicopter services for devotees for the second consecutive year.
The move underscores the administration's heightened focus on security and reflects the extensive measures being put in place to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the pilgrimage.
According to Government Order No. 321-HOME of 2026, issued on June 1, all routes associated with the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, including the traditional Pahalgam route in south Kashmir and the Baltal route in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, will remain under No-Fly Zone restrictions from July 1 until the conclusion of the Yatra.
The decision comes amid enhanced security concerns and follows a series of high-level review meetings chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, involving senior officials from the police, civil administration, intelligence agencies, the Army, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and disaster management authorities.
Officials said the No-Fly Zone has been imposed to strengthen aerial security, prevent unauthorised flying activities, and facilitate effective surveillance along the pilgrimage routes. Security agencies have been directed to maintain round-the-clock monitoring of the Yatra corridor, which passes through rugged mountainous terrain and several sensitive areas.
With the implementation of the order, helicopter services that were previously available for pilgrims travelling from the Baltal and Pahalgam sectors to the Holy Cave Shrine will remain suspended throughout this year's pilgrimage.
The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB) has advised pilgrims to undertake the journey on foot or avail themselves of traditional modes of transport, including ponies and palkis.
Sources said security arrangements for the 2026 Yatra are being significantly strengthened with the deployment of additional personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, CAPFs, and the Army. Authorities are expected to establish a multi-layered security grid supported by advanced surveillance systems, CCTV monitoring, anti-drone technology, Quick Response Teams (QRTs), bomb disposal squads, and emergency medical units along the pilgrimage routes.
In addition to security measures, the administration is focusing on disaster preparedness, communication networks, traffic regulation, and healthcare facilities to ensure a safe and hassle-free pilgrimage for devotees.
Officials said sensitive locations along both routes are being identified for special monitoring, while comprehensive security audits of base camps, transit camps, accommodation facilities, and vulnerable stretches are underway.
The annual pilgrimage to the Holy Cave Shrine of Shri Amarnath Ji is scheduled to commence on July 3 and conclude on August 28, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.
Every year, lakhs of devotees from across the country participate in the pilgrimage, making it one of India's largest and most significant religious events.
Authorities have urged pilgrims to complete the registration process well in advance, strictly adhere to advisories issued by the administration and the Shrine Board, and cooperate with security agencies to ensure the smooth conduct of the Yatra.
Officials said the suspension of helicopter services and the declaration of the pilgrimage routes as a No-Fly Zone reflect the administration's commitment to prioritising security while facilitating a safe and successful Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026. |
