J&K Declares Amarnath Yatra Routes 'No Flying Zones' Ahead of Pilgrimage

In a significant security move, the Jammu and Kashmir government on Tuesday declared the routes of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra as ‘No Flying Zones’ from July 1 to August 10. The order, issued by the Home Department under the directions of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, aims to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of the annual pilgrimage.

The Amarnath Yatra, which begins on July 3 this year, takes place via two routes—the traditional Pahalgam route and the shorter Baltal route. The government’s directive prohibits the flying of drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), balloons, or any kind of aviation devices across both routes during the yatra period.

However, exceptions have been made for medical evacuations, disaster management, and surveillance operations by security agencies. A separate Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) outlining the protocols for such exemptions will be issued soon, according to the order.

“In view of the Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2025 and considering the prevailing security situation in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, several stakeholders, including security agencies, have proposed additional logistics and safety measures,” the order stated.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has also advised the imposition of airspace restrictions along the entire yatra corridor. Following this, both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes have now officially been designated as no-fly zones for the duration of the yatra.

The enhanced security arrangements come in the wake of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which left 26 people dead and triggered concerns about the safety of the pilgrimage. Authorities are now working to avoid any potential threats during the yatra, which attracts thousands of pilgrims annually from across the country.

The decision underscores the government's commitment to providing a secure environment for pilgrims and personnel involved in the yatra, ensuring that the event is conducted peacefully and without disruptions.

(With inputs from PTI)