REASI 30 December :- In anticipation of the massive influx of pilgrims expected for New Year’s Eve, Sarah Rizvi (IPS), DIG Udhampur–Reasi Range, conducted a comprehensive security and traffic management review in the holy town of Katra.
Accompanied by SSP Reasi Paramvir Singh and other senior officials, the DIG inspected vital security checkpoints and nakas, urging ground personnel to maintain heightened vigilance while ensuring a “pilgrim-friendly” demeanor. The visit was specifically aimed at streamlining the experience for thousands of devotees arriving from across India and abroad for the darshan of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi.
A central component of the security strategy is the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) in Katra, which the DIG visited to assess live surveillance capabilities. The center currently monitors a network of 564 CCTV cameras providing real-time coverage of Katra town, the trekking routes, and other high-sensitivity zones.
Rizvi issued strict instructions for the effective use of this technology to facilitate rapid response, crowd control, and efficient traffic flow during the peak rush on December 31st and January 1st.To gain a first-hand perspective on the ground reality, the DIG conducted foot patrols through high-traffic areas, including Ticket Counter No. 2, the main Bus Stand, and Varun Chowk.
During these patrols, she interacted directly with arriving pilgrims to gauge the effectiveness of the current arrangements and met with CRPF personnel to commend their coordination with local police. This high-level review serves to reinforce the administration’s commitment to a seamless and secure environment for all devotees as they ring in the New Year.
