Srinagar, June 25 (UNI) With the Amarnath Yatra set to commence on July 3, security forces today conducted comprehensive mock drills across multiple districts of Kashmir to assess preparedness and coordination for the annual pilgrimage.

The J&K Police, in collaboration with Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and other key civil and rescue agencies, carried out coordinated exercises in Srinagar, Anantnag, Kulgam, Awantipora, Bandipora, and Ganderbal.

These drills focused on ensuring a swift and effective response to any potential contingency along the Yatra routes and at base camps, police said.

In Srinagar, police conducted a large-scale drill at various strategic locations, simulating real-time emergency scenarios. The exercise aimed to evaluate operational readiness, inter-agency coordination, communication systems, and emergency response protocols. Participating agencies included the Fire and Emergency Services, ambulance services, Health Department, SDRF, Traffic Department, and Civil Administration.

“The mock drill sends out a strong message that the yatra is secure, and the administration is fully ready to deal with any situation,” SSP Srinagar, G.V Sundeep Chakravarthy said.

Before the drills commenced, Zonal and Sector officers of J&K Police conducted detailed SOP briefings for all participating units. Emphasis was laid on real-time monitoring, seamless communication flow, and synchronized response efforts.

Simulated scenarios included road traffic accidents, fidayeen attacks, and law & order situations, allowing security forces to assess response strategies in high-pressure environments. Following the exercises, debriefing sessions were held with all stakeholders to review performance, identify operational gaps, and refine the Emergency Response Plan.

In Kulgam, police conducted mock drills at key points along the National Highway, including the Walnut Factory Yatra base camp in Qazigund and Mirbazar, under the supervision of SSP Kulgam Sahil Sarangal

Similarly, Police in Awantipora, along with other security forces, conducted a comprehensive mock drill across key locations, particularly along the NH-44 corridor. The exercise, overseen by SSP Awantipora, Sajad Ahmad Shah, focused on assessing the efficiency of evacuation protocols, communication systems, and overall security preparedness for the Yatra.

Officials said the drills not only demonstrated the strengths of the emergency response framework across the Valley but also provided actionable insights into areas needing improvement, ensuring a safer and more coordinated Yatra experience for all pilgrims. UNI MJR SSP