ANANTNAG, JUNE 25: With preparations for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026 entering the final phase, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anantnag, Amod Ashok Nagpure, has rolled out an ambitious and technology-driven security initiative, “Project Hawk Eye,” aimed at creating a comprehensive surveillance shield along the pilgrimage route passing through South Kashmir.
The project, conceived and implemented under the supervision of SSP Nagpure, represents one of the most extensive security and surveillance arrangements undertaken in the district in recent years.
Combining aerial monitoring, ground domination, advanced electronic surveillance and specialized security deployments, the initiative is designed to ensure round-the-clock vigilance and rapid response capabilities throughout the duration of the annual pilgrimage.
At the core of Project Hawk Eye is a robust aerial surveillance network comprising five dedicated drone detachments deployed at strategically important locations.
The drones will provide live feeds and real-time situational awareness to security forces, enabling them to monitor large stretches of the yatra route, identify potential threats, assess crowd movement and coordinate immediate action whenever required.
To strengthen security on the ground, Anantnag Police has established 28 Machan Morchas (elevated observation posts) at vulnerable and sensitive points along the route.
These elevated positions provide security personnel with a commanding view of surrounding areas and help in maintaining constant surveillance over critical stretches.
In addition, 22 specially trained sniper teams have been deployed at designated locations to bolster security preparedness and ensure swift intervention in any emergency situation.
The project also marks a significant technological leap in policing and surveillance.
A network of 416 high-resolution CCTV cameras, integrated with Facial Recognition System (FRS) infrastructure, has been installed at key locations.
The system will provide uninterrupted real-time monitoring and assist security agencies in detecting suspicious activity, identifying persons of interest and enhancing overall situational awareness.
The use of facial recognition technology is expected to strengthen preventive security measures and support intelligence-led policing during the yatra.
Officials said SSP Amod Ashok Nagpure has been closely monitoring every aspect of the security plan, with a strong focus on integrating technology with conventional policing methods.
The initiative reflects his emphasis on proactive security management, enhanced coordination among agencies and the adoption of modern surveillance tools to address evolving security challenges associated with large-scale religious gatherings.
Project Hawk Eye effectively creates a seamless security architecture with “eyes in the sky and on the ground,” ensuring comprehensive coverage of the entire pilgrimage route in Anantnag district.
The initiative is expected to significantly enhance the ability of security forces to prevent, detect and respond to any potential threat while facilitating the smooth movement of pilgrims.
As thousands of devotees from across the country prepare to undertake the sacred journey to the holy cave shrine, SSP Nagpure’s Project Hawk Eye stands as a testament to Anantnag Police’s commitment to ensuring a safe, secure and incident-free Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026.
Police have appealed to the public and pilgrims to cooperate with security personnel and promptly report any suspicious activity, reinforcing the collective effort to make the pilgrimage a success.