Ganderbal Girds for Pilgrim Season: Security Stepped Up for Kheer Bhawani Mela, Amarnath Yatra
Police have enhanced security measures in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir in preparation for the annual Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela and the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, officials said on Sunday (June 21, 2026). The move aims to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage experience for devotees.
Police conducted area domination exercises in and around the Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tulmulla as part of the security preparedness for the religious congregation scheduled for Monday (June 22, 2026). The exercises are intended to maintain a secure environment for devotees, locals, and visitors attending the festival, a police spokesman said.
As part of a comprehensive security plan, highway checking and surveillance measures have been strengthened on the Ganderbal-Baltal axis for the Amarnath Yatra (SANJY-2026), which is set to begin on July 3. Security personnel are conducting thorough vehicle checks and maintaining strict vigil at key points along the yatra route to ensure foolproof security, the spokesman added.
Advance Security Tasking (AST) exercises are underway at strategic locations to assess and strengthen the security grid, enhance coordination among security agencies, and ensure prompt response to any emerging situation during the yatra period, he said.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone V.K. Birdi, accompanied by DIG Central Kashmir Range Rajiv Omprakash Pande and SSP Ganderbal Sudhanshu Dhama, visited the temple on Sunday and conducted a comprehensive review of the security arrangements for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the Mela. During the visit, the IGP assessed the security grid and arrangements within and around the temple premises, including access control, crowd management measures, and availability of designated parking facilities.
Emphasising the need for maintaining high standards of vigilance, coordination, and preparedness, Mr. Birdi directed officers to ensure foolproof security, effective traffic management, and timely facilitation of all necessary services at the temple and adjoining areas. He stressed that all concerned officers should work in close coordination with other departments and stakeholders for the successful conduct of the Mela.
