Media: Delhi Opens Kashmir Hindu Pilgrimage, Enhanced Security Measures After Pahalgam Attack
The Amarnath pilgrimage to the Himalayan holy site began today. Since the attack in Pahalgam in April this year, which killed 25 tourists, the Indian government has taken unprecedented security measures, including paramilitary forces, drones, digital mapping, and armored vehicles. Despite the ongoing tension with Pakistan, this move aims to promote tourism.
New Delhi (Asia News) – The Hindu Amarnath pilgrimage began today in the Jammu and Kashmir region, with special security measures taken by the authorities to ensure the safety of the devotees. The alert level reached its highest after the attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which killed more than 20 people, mostly tourists. Thousands of people from across the country are expected to participate in the event.
For the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the goal is not only to ensure the safety of the pilgrims but also to revive tourism in Kashmir. The region has been severely affected by the ongoing tensions with Pakistan.
The pilgrimage will last 38 days, reaching the rock shrine of Amarnath at an altitude of 3,880 meters, passing through two routes: a traditional route starting from Pahalgam (Anantnag district), and a shorter route starting from Baltal (Ganderbal district).
To deal with possible terrorist threats, accidents, or natural disasters, the government has deployed 580 paramilitary forces, drones, police dogs, snipers, the latest generation of armored vehicles, and numerous checkpoints. As a key part of the pilgrimage route, the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway will be monitored in real-time using advanced technology.
The government's measures include drawing a digital map of the route and using facial recognition through digital identity documents to track the movements of the pilgrims. Pilgrims will travel in bulletproof vehicles and be accompanied by personnel trained in evacuation and first aid, ready to intervene in case of landslides, accidents, or roadblocks. Due to the monsoon season, shelters have been set up along the way. Additionally, children under 13 years old and elderly people over 70 years old are prohibited from entering.
Compared to previous years, the duration of the pilgrimage has been shortened from 52 days to 38 days, a decision made by the central government to reduce risks and strengthen protection measures. This move aims to prevent similar tragedies like the Pahalgam incident from happening again and to ensure the safety of the pilgrimage. In the context of frequent serious accidents: in the past year alone, India had 9 fatal accidents, 6 of which occurred during religious ceremonies. The most recent accident occurred in June, during a procession at the Jagannath Temple in Puri (Odisha), killing 3 people and injuring more than 50. State government authorities were accused of "negligence" and "serious security loopholes," and an investigation has been launched to uncover the truth of the incident.
Author: Maria Casadei
Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1837016170404228/
Statement: The article represents the personal views of the author.