Amarnath Yatra Routes Declared ‘No-Fly Zone’ for Safety of Pilgrims

Amarnath Yatra Routes Declared ‘No-Fly Zone’ for Safety of Pilgrims (image: ANI)

In a major move to strengthen security for the annual Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2025, the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department has officially declared the entire pilgrimage route a ‘No-Fly Zone’. This restriction, in effect from July 1 to August 10, aims to ensure the safety of thousands of devotees participating in the sacred Himalayan pilgrimage.

The Pahalgam route and Baltal route, the two main tracks leading to the holy Amarnath cave shrine, will now be off-limits to all aerial platforms. This includes UAVs, drones, paragliders, balloons, and other airborne devices. The order was issued under the directive of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, following security recommendations by all stakeholders and the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.

No-Fly Zone to Prevent Security BreachThe decision comes ahead of the July 3 start date of the yatra, and in light of the recent Pahalgam terror attack in April, which claimed 26 lives. Officials emphasized the heightened need for vigilance and stricter controls in sensitive zones.

The Ministry of Home Affairs recommended the step to prevent any security risks from aerial surveillance or drone attacks. The 'No-Fly Zone' directive applies to both Pahalgam and Baltal axes, two vital routes through which the yatra is conducted annually.

The order clearly mentions that this restriction does not apply to medical evacuations, disaster response, or security surveillance operations. For such exceptions, a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will be issued by concerned authorities to ensure smooth coordination during emergencies. Authorities are working round the clock to implement robust security protocols. Review meetings with key security agencies have taken place to evaluate logistical support and threat perception across the Union Territory.

As thousands of pilgrims are expected to participate in the spiritually significant Amarnath Yatra, the government is committed to ensuring a peaceful, secure, and seamless pilgrimage experience.