Pahalgam and Baltal 'no-fly zones': Amarnath Yatra routes to be restricted starting July 1 over 'pilgrim security' concerns
&imwidth=600&imheight=450&format=webp&quality=medium "Pahalgam and Baltal 'no-fly zones': Amarnath Yatra routes to be restricted starting July 1 over 'pilgrim security' concerns")
Amarnath Yatra routes declared ‘no-fly zones’ from July 1 for pilgrim security Photograph: (Others)
As per the announcement, the 'No Fly Zone' would be implemented on the traditional pilgrimage routes — Pahalgam and Baltal “to ensure foolproof security to pilgrims”.
In a significant move to bolster security for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, authorities on Tuesday (Jun 17) declared that "No-Fly Zones" will be put in place starting July 1. As per the announcement, the 'No Fly Zone' would be implemented on the traditional pilgrimage routes — Pahalgam and Baltal “to ensure foolproof security to pilgrims”.
Why a ‘No Fly Zone’?
According to officials, the decision to enforce a no-fly policy over the Yatra corridors has been taken on the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) advice. The Union Territory’s Home Department has prohibited the use of all aerial platforms – including drones, UAVs, and even balloons – along the Pahalgam and Baltal pilgrimage axes.
Aerial operations for medical evacuations, disaster relief, or security agency surveillance, however, will not be prohibited.
The restriction is aimed at ensuring foolproof safety for the tens of thousands of pilgrims expected to undertake the annual Himalayan journey.
“This measure is part of the broader security protocol to safeguard pilgrims and support staff against emerging threats, particularly the misuse of drone technology by militant elements.”
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The security measures come in the aftermath of the horrific April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a local.
As per reports, along the Yatra route, approximately 580 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) will be stationed. To further secure the yatra, multi-tier security cordons, RFID pilgrim tracking, and aerial surveillance will be used.
What is a ‘No Fly Zone’?
A no-fly zone, also referred to as a no-flight zone or air exclusion zone, is an area of airspace where certain aircraft are prohibited from flying.
The Amarnath Yatra 2025 is set to begin on July 3rd and conclude on August 9th. This year, the pilgrimage will last for 38 days, significantly shorter than last year's 52-day schedule.
