The upcoming Amarnath Yatra 2025 is set to proceed with heightened security measures, impacting how pilgrims undertake the journey to the Himalayan shrine. In a significant decision, the Jammu and Kashmir government has declared all Amarnath Yatra routes as 'No Flying Zones' from July 1 to August 10. This security measure also entails the suspension of helicopter services for pilgrims during this period.

Heightened Security Measures

The decision to declare the Yatra routes as 'No Flying Zones' comes in the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in the deaths of 26 people. The Jammu and Kashmir Home Department, on the orders of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, issued a declaration prohibiting all aviation platforms and devices, including UAVs, drones, and balloons, along both the traditional Pahalgam route and the shorter Baltal route.

According to officials, this measure aims to ensure strengthened security during the Yatra. Exceptions will be made for medical evacuations, disaster management, and surveillance by security forces, for which a detailed Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) will be issued.

To further enhance security, approximately 580 additional companies of Central Armed Paramilitary Forces (CAPF) are being deployed. Security forces will also utilize bomb disposal squads, K9 units, facial recognition systems, and extensive CCTV surveillance. Advanced drone monitoring and communication jammers will be active throughout the Yatra corridor to prevent unauthorized aerial activity. The deployment of facial recognition systems (FRS) on the Srinagar Baltal and Pahalgam route will help identify blacklisted individuals, including active terrorists and suspected overground workers.

Suspension of Helicopter Services

As a result of the 'No Flying Zone' declaration, helicopter services for pilgrims will not be available this year. The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) has confirmed that helicopter services for pilgrim travel will remain suspended in the Yatra area during SANJY 2025. Pilgrims are advised to reach the Holy Cave Shrine on foot or avail the services of ponies and palkis throughout the Yatra. The two popular helicopter routes are Baltal – Panchtarni – Amarnath Cave and Pahalgam – Panchtarni – Amarnath Cave.

Yatra Details

The Amarnath Yatra 2025 is scheduled to commence on July 3 and conclude on August 9, lasting 38 days. The pilgrimage attracts thousands of devotees annually, who visit the Himalayan cave shrine housing the naturally formed ice lingam of Lord Shiva. Over 3.50 lakh pilgrims from across the country have already registered for the Yatra.

Travel Advice and Safety Measures

For those undertaking the Amarnath Yatra, registration is compulsory, and a valid Yatra Permit is required. A Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) is also necessary, and only physically fit individuals aged 13 to 70 are allowed to participate. Pregnant women and individuals with chronic illnesses are discouraged from undertaking the Yatra.

Pilgrims are advised to travel in groups, carry warm clothes, raincoats, and waterproof shoes. It is also recommended to keep a basic medical kit and ID proof handy, and to download the official Amarnath Yatra mobile app for alerts and important information.

Other Considerations

With the suspension of helicopter services, pilgrims should prepare for a more physically demanding journey. This includes engaging in physical fitness preparations at least a month before the pilgrimage, such as daily walks and deep breathing exercises. It's also important to stay updated on weather forecasts and route advisories, as weather conditions in the Himalayas can change rapidly.