Jammu, March 31: As the 2024 Amarnath Yatra approaches, authorities in Jammu and Kashmir are ramping up efforts to ensure the safety and security of millions of devotees undertaking the revered pilgrimage. With a focus on disaster management and rescue operations, preparations are underway to navigate the challenging terrain and safeguard pilgrims seeking the blessings of Baba Barfani.
The Mountaineering Rescue Team of Jammu and Kashmir is at the forefront of these preparations, conducting rigorous training activities in the Nad area of Samba. Comprising 1300 trained soldiers, the team is equipped to handle emergencies along the pilgrimage route, drawing on their expertise honed through years of specialized training and past life-saving missions.
As anticipation builds for the Yatra, scheduled to commence at the end of June and span over two months, security forces from various units are undergoing specialized training in hilly areas to enhance their disaster management skills. Notably, hundreds of soldiers have already completed their training, with additional batches currently undergoing instruction.
The training regimen covers a wide range of essential skills tailored to the challenging terrain of Jammu and Kashmir, including rescue operations in the event of landslides, floods, fires, and road accidents. With adverse weather conditions posing temporary challenges, security forces remain vigilant, ready to respond to emergencies and ensure the safety of pilgrims.
The formation of the Mountaineering Rescue Team in 2009 marked a significant step in disaster preparedness for the Amarnath Yatra, with the team continuously refining its capabilities over the years. Their dedicated efforts have saved numerous lives during emergencies, underscoring the importance of robust safety measures for pilgrims embarking on this sacred journey.