Police in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district have rolled out a technology-driven security initiative, ‘Project Hawk Eye’, to strengthen surveillance and security arrangements for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026.
According to police officials, the project is a comprehensive surveillance framework that combines aerial monitoring, facial recognition technology, sniper deployment and an extensive CCTV network to ensure round-the-clock security along the pilgrimage route.
“The objective is to provide comprehensive surveillance and security initiatives aimed at maintaining continuous vigilance from the sky to the ground across the entire Yatra route,” officials said.
As part of the initiative, Anantnag Police have established a multi-layered security grid integrating advanced technology with strategic manpower deployment. Five drones have been deployed at key locations to provide real-time aerial surveillance and enhance situational awareness. The drone network is expected to enable rapid assessment of emerging situations and facilitate prompt response by ground units.
To strengthen ground-level monitoring, 28 strategically positioned ‘Machan Morchas’ (vantage observation posts) have been set up at vulnerable and sensitive locations along the route.
In addition, 22 specially trained sniper teams have been deployed at designated points to reinforce security preparedness and response capabilities.
Officials said the surveillance infrastructure also includes 416 high-resolution CCTV cameras and a Facial Recognition System (FRS) installed at critical locations along the pilgrimage route. The systems will provide continuous real-time monitoring and assist security agencies in identifying suspicious movements or activities, thereby enhancing preventive security measures.
“Through Project Hawk Eye, Anantnag Police have effectively positioned their eyes in the sky and on the ground, creating a seamless surveillance network that ensures comprehensive monitoring of the pilgrimage route,” officials said.
They added that the initiative reflects the police force’s commitment to leveraging modern technology and professional policing practices to provide a secure environment for pilgrims.
“Anantnag Police remains fully committed to safeguarding every aspect of the pilgrimage and ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026. The public is urged to cooperate with security personnel and immediately report any suspicious activity to the nearest police establishment for prompt action,” officials said.
(With IANS inputs)
