Security arrangements reviewed for Janmashtami, Kailash Kund Yatra

JAMMU: A senior police officer on Wednesday reviewed security arrangements for the upcoming Janmashtami festival and Kailash Kund Yatra in Udhampur district, an official said.

While Janmashtami will be celebrated on September 4, the five-day Kailash Kund Yatra will begin from the Dudu base camp in Udhampur on September 6. Pilgrims will pass through high-altitude meadows such as Seoj Dhar before reaching the sacred glacial lake at 14,241 feet in the adjoining Bhaderwah heights of Doda district.

Chairing a security review meeting in Udhampur, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Udhampur-Reasi Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma directed officers to ensure close coordination, enhanced vigilance and effective deployment of resources for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the religious events.

Various aspects, including law and order, security arrangements, intelligence gathering, inter-agency coordination, crowd management, traffic regulation and emergency response, were reviewed during the meeting, a police spokesman said.

He said officers were briefed to maintain heightened alertness and ensure prompt sharing and assessment of inputs to further strengthen the security grid.

The DIG stressed the need for officers to remain proactive, responsive and accessible to the public while maintaining close coordination with the civil administration, security agencies, religious bodies and other stakeholders.

Special emphasis was laid on adequate security and safety arrangements at temples and other important religious places in view of the expected congregation of devotees during Janmashtami, the spokesman said.

He said officers were directed to maintain regular liaison with management committees and ensure necessary measures for the safety and convenience of devotees.

The DIG also directed officers to ensure seamless coordination, professional conduct and strict adherence to established security protocols while keeping the arrangements people-friendly and facilitative.

Sharma said the J&K Police remained committed to ensuring a safe, secure and peaceful environment for devotees and the general public, and called upon all ranks to remain vigilant and discharge their duties with utmost dedication and professionalism.

The meeting concluded with directions to all concerned officers to maintain close supervision of the arrangements and remain fully prepared to meet any emerging requirements during the forthcoming religious events, the spokesman said.