Srinagar: Inspector General of Police (Traffic), Jammu and Kashmir, M. Suleman Choudhary on Tuesday visited the Baltal Base Camp to review traffic management arrangements and preparedness for the smooth conduct of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026.
He was accompanied by Liaqat Ali, Gulzar Ahmad, the SHO Sonamarg and other officers and officials.
During the visit, the IGP conducted a detailed inspection of designated Yatra routes, parking areas, traffic regulation points and critical junctions along the Baltal axis. He reviewed the condition of roads, traffic diversion plans, parking facilities, signages, barricading arrangements and coordination mechanisms established for traffic management during the pilgrimage.
Emphasising the importance of hassle-free movement of pilgrims, particularly through sensitive and high-altitude stretches, Choudhary directed officers to ensure prompt clearance of stranded or broken-down vehicles, effective traffic regulation and real-time coordination with Yatra control rooms and other stakeholder agencies.
The IGP also interacted with officers and personnel deployed on the ground and sought feedback regarding operational challenges and preparedness measures.
He stressed the need for visible police presence, proper deployment of manpower, installation of adequate directional signages and strict adherence to traffic advisories to prevent congestion and ensure smooth vehicular movement.
During the inspection, the IGP issued several directions to the concerned officers, including deployment of recovery cranes and breakdown assistance teams at vulnerable stretches prone to congestion or vehicle breakdowns.
He directed that dedicated parking facilities for light motor vehicles, heavy motor vehicles, service vehicles and Yatra-related transport be properly demarcated and managed with adequate signage.
The officer further stressed the need to maintain separate corridors for emergency and essential service vehicles to facilitate swift movement during emergencies.
Choudhary also called for daily briefing and debriefing sessions with field staff to assess operational performance and address emerging challenges. He emphasised the importance of balancing the movement of pilgrims, tourists and local commuters to ensure smooth traffic flow for all road users.
The IGP directed officers to maintain close coordination with the civil administration, district police, BEACON authorities and other stakeholder agencies for timely resolution of traffic-related issues.
He further instructed that feedback from pilgrims, local residents and other stakeholders should be continuously monitored and utilised for necessary mid-course corrections to ensure efficient traffic management during the Yatra.
