Srinagar 24 June: To take stock of preparations for the Amarnath Yatra 2024, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) L&O Vijay Kumar on Monday conducted a comprehensive review meeting with the Mountain Rescue Teams (MRTs) of SDRF J&K, J&K Armed Police, NDRF, BSF, and CRPF.
As per reports a police spokesperson said that ADGP L&O was accompanied by IG Kashmir, DIG Armed/SDRF, DIG Police CKR, CO, NDRF and CO, SDRF during the review meeting.
“The meeting focused on preparations for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2024, a significant annual pilgrimage that draws lakhs of devotees to the holy Amarnath cave. Kumar briefed the teams on their specific duties during the yatra, emphasising the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of the pilgrims. During the session, Kumar assessed the current state of equipment with each team and made specific recommendations for necessary upgrades and the proper utilisation of resources. He gave special attention to the waterproofing of the clothing of the Mountain Rescue Teams, stressing that the fitness and proper gear of rescuers is imperative for effective rescue operations,” the police spokesperson said.
ADGP L&O also reviewed the training status of the teams and took stock of the training conducted throughout the year. Kumar extolled the teams to utilise their professional skills as per their training, emphasising that well-rehearsed manoeuvres are crucial in disaster situations where panic can often ensue.
“Kumar also made specific comments to boost the morale of the forces,
encouraging them to see their rescue operations as a revered duty that holds spiritual significance. He conveyed that their service is not only a critical responsibility but also a noble act of assisting pilgrims on their sacred journey. Furthermore, Kumar reviewed the deployment pattern of the MRT Teams of all the forces and made specific suggestions regarding the inclusion of some more locations which are sensitive as per recent review of the route,” the police spokesperson said.
He also sensitised the teams towards recent GLOF (Glacial Lake Outburst Flood) incidents which have occurred in different states of the country and highlighted the challenges climate change is bringing, especially to the work spectrum of the Disaster Response Forces of the nation.
The Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, scheduled from June 29 to August 19, 2024, is a deeply spiritual pilgrimage in Hinduism, honouring Lord Shiva. Pilgrims undertake a challenging trek to the Amarnath cave, where a natural ice formation, believed to be a manifestation of Shiva, is venerated.
“Kumar urged all teams to approach their duties with dedication and respect, as their efforts are integral to the success and sanctity of the pilgrimage. He concluded the review meeting by reiterating the importance of preparedness, coordination, and the spiritual value of their service,” the police spokesperson added.
