In view of twin challenges of security & COVID, authorities review arrangements for Yatra

Srinagar, (#thestates.news) In view of twin challenges of security, because of threat perception, and COVID-19 pandemic, a high level meeting stressed the need for working great synergy to ensure successful and smooth conduct of the annual pilgrimage to holy Amarnath cave shrine in south Kashmir Himalayas.
Advisor to Lt Governor R R Bhatnagar and Director General of Police Dilbagh Singh reviewed the security and other arrangements for the Yatra besides paid obeisance at the Holy Cave shrine on Sunday, an official spokesman said late last night in a statement.
He said the advisor and the DGP first visited Shri Amarnath cave where they offered prayers. On their return, they chaired joint officers meeting at Baltal base camp through shortest Yatra route. Several senior civil, police other security agency officials also attended the meeting, he said.
Advisor Bhatnagar stressed for enhanced coordination among the forces for smooth conduct of Yatra. He emphasized for identifying the sensitive places and strengthening the security grid.The Advisor urged the officers to work with synergy to ensure successful and smooth conduct of Yatra 2020. Bhatnagar complimented the police and Special Forces for an outstanding performance. He emphasized the need for creating conducive environment to make the Yatra a success.
Addressing the meeting , the DGP directed the officers that fine tuned plans should be put in action in such a way that required timelines as per Yatra schedule are met well in time and adequate arrangements are provided for the Yatra. He said that whatever support in the shape of logistics and manpower is required have been placed at their disposal for smooth conduct of the Yatra.
He said that all busy places, including langars, should be brought under security cover and intelligence gathering accelerated and shared for making preventive measures. Round the clock functioning of joint control rooms and supervision of arrangements by the senior officers should be put in place, DGP added. Mr Singh also asked for strengthening the communication network and maintain liaison about the arrival and departure of pilgrims.
He said that all necessary arrangements be placed to facilitate for the pilgrimage keeping in view the challenges of COVID-19. Mr Singh said that quick response teams should be put on high alert so that necessary help and assistance be provided to the pilgrims as and when required. He said that sufficient manpower from different security agencies is being put on the pilgrimage duty to strengthen the deployment grid. The DGP also interacted with the Jawans and appreciated their commitment and dedication for safeguarding the interests of people and the country. (uni)(#mediasaheb.com)