SRINAGAR, June 19: In a major step aimed at strengthening disaster response and ensuring the safety of pilgrims during the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026, Director General of Police (DGP) Jammu and Kashmir, Nalin Prabhat on Thursday flagged off 45 Mountain Rescue Teams (MRTs) from the premises of SDRF 1st Battalion Srinagar for deployment along the twin pilgrimage routes of Pahalgam and Baltal.
The Mountain Rescue Teams comprise personnel from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Jammu and Kashmir Armed Police (JKAP), Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), who will be stationed at designated locations to provide emergency response and rescue services during the annual pilgrimage.
The flag-off ceremony witnessed the presence of several senior police, security and civil administration officers, including S.J.M. Geelani, Abdul Gani Mir, Anand Jain, V.K. Birdi, Sujit Kumar, Ashok Yadav and other senior officers from various security and disaster management agencies.
Welcoming the dignitaries, SSP and Commandant SDRF 1st Battalion Srinagar emphasized that the deployment of MRTs reflects the collective commitment of all stakeholders towards ensuring the safety, security and well-being of thousands of pilgrims expected to undertake the sacred annual yatra.
Addressing the gathering, Commandant General HG/CD and SDRF J&K, Abdul Gani Mir, lauded the dedication and preparedness of the rescue teams and highlighted the critical role they would play in handling emergencies in difficult mountainous terrain. He urged all deployed teams to maintain close coordination with each other and remain available round the clock to assist pilgrims at every stage of the yatra.
He said the MRT personnel have undergone specialized training in mountain rescue operations, avalanche response, disaster mitigation and emergency relief measures, enabling them to respond swiftly and effectively in any contingency.
Speaking on the occasion, DGP Nalin Prabhat interacted with the rescue personnel and underscored the vital role of SDRF and allied agencies in disaster response and emergency management across Jammu and Kashmir. He praised the exemplary performance of SDRF personnel during the Gulmarg Gondola Rescue Operation and commended their courage, professionalism and commitment displayed during challenging rescue missions.
The DGP also highlighted the coordinated efforts of various wings of Jammu and Kashmir Police and partner agencies in ensuring public safety and effective emergency response mechanisms. He called upon the MRT personnel to remain vigilant, disciplined and fully prepared to meet any challenge during the Amarnath Yatra.
Expressing confidence in the capabilities of the trained teams, Prabhat said their deployment would significantly contribute to the safe, secure and smooth conduct of SANJY-2026. Before the formal flag-off, he personally inspected the rescue equipment, reviewed operational preparedness and motivated the teams for their upcoming assignment.
The deployment of 45 Mountain Rescue Teams marks a significant strengthening of the disaster response framework along the yatra routes, ensuring the availability of trained manpower and emergency support in vulnerable and high-altitude locations.
The ceremony concluded with the formal flagging off of the rescue contingents amid applause and best wishes from senior officers and officials present on the occasion. (KNC)
