Planning a spiritual start to your New Year? If Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine is on your list, you can breathe easy! Authorities have rolled out a robust, high-tech security plan to ensure a safe and smooth experience for the thousands of devotees expected during the festive season.
Inspector General of Police, Jammu, Bhim Sen Tuti, confirmed that extensive measures are in place. Imagine this: over 550 CCTV cameras are constantly watching the yatra track and surrounding areas. These aren’t just any cameras; their live feeds are monitored 24/7 from a central control room, jointly managed by the Shrine Board, J-K Police, and central paramilitary forces. Any alert generated by the system gets an immediate response, ensuring rapid action when needed.
The focus is squarely on integrating technology for effective crowd and security management. The Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) is at the heart of this strategy, pulling together inputs from CCTVs, RFID systems (for tracking pilgrims), and wireless connectivity. This advanced setup, which uses data analytics to detect potential overcrowding, has been significantly strengthened this year, building on initiatives from last year.
Beyond the gadgets, there’s a strong emphasis on skilled human intervention. The IGP stressed the importance of continuous training for ICCC staff, ensuring that both technology and trained personnel work together seamlessly. This means faster response times and better coordination, making your journey safer.
So, as you prepare to seek blessings at Vaishno Devi this New Year, rest assured that every effort is being made to provide a secure and peaceful pilgrimage. Your safety is their priority!
Source: https://www.theweek.in/wire-updates/national/2025/12/28/des13-jk-police-vaishno-devi.html
