Srinagar | June 17, 2025 — In a decisive step to strengthen security for the annual Amarnath Yatra, the Jammu and Kashmir government has declared a ‘No-Fly Zone’ over the entire pilgrimage route, imposing strict restrictions on the use of drones and aerial devices. The directive, effective from July 1 to August 10, comes in response to recent security threats, including the Pahalgam attack.
Drone Ban Covers Pahalgam and Baltal Routes
The restrictions apply to drones, UAVs, balloons, and all forms of aerial surveillance or recreational flying across both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes. However, exemptions have been made for medical evacuations, disaster response, and security surveillance flights, which will operate under a soon-to-be-issued Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
Yatra Dates and Route Information
The Amarnath Yatra 2025 will be conducted from July 3 to August 9. Devotees can choose from two main routes:
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Pahalgam Route: A more comfortable, 3-day journey through Chandanwadi, Pissu Top, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni, covering a gradual and scenic ascent.
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Baltal Route: A shorter but steeper 14 km trek, known for its narrow, risky paths — often challenging for elderly pilgrims.
Unprecedented Security Measures for 2025
In a first, mobile jammers are being deployed to safeguard the convoy movement. The Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) will oversee the convoy's security, supported by 581 companies of paramilitary and police forces — with 425 new companies joining the 156 already stationed in the region by June 10.
Other security arrangements include:
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Strict verification of pony handlers and disqualification of individuals with criminal backgrounds.
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Real-time tracking of tagged horses and mules to monitor route deviations.
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Deployment of Quick Action Teams, Road Opening Parties (ROP), Bomb Disposal Squads, and K9 units.
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Advanced drone surveillance systems throughout the route.
Pilgrim Turnout in Recent Years
The Amarnath Yatra has consistently seen massive footfall:
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2024: Over 5 lakh pilgrims visited during the 52-day yatra.
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2023: Approximately 4.5 lakh pilgrims participated.
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2022: The turnout dropped to 3 lakh, due to COVID concerns.
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2012: Saw a record-breaking 6.35 lakh devotees.
The Yatra was suspended in 2020 and 2021 during the peak of the pandemic.
History of Terror Threats on the Yatra
The sacred journey has not been without tragedy. Notable past attacks include:
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2000 Nunwan base camp attack – 32 fatalities.
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2001 Sheshnag base attack – 13 killed.
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2002 Chandanwari blast – 11 killed.
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2017 Kulgam bus attack – 8 pilgrims lost their lives.
These incidents underscore the need for heightened vigilance and robust protection mechanisms during the Yatra.