KATRA: Sarah Rizvi, IPS, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Udhampur–Reasi Range, on Tuesday visited Katra to review security and traffic management arrangements ahead of December 31 and New Year celebrations, in view of the expected heavy influx of pilgrims from across India and abroad.
She was accompanied by SSP Reasi Paramvir Singh, JKPS; Addl. SP Katra Vipan Chandran, JKPS; SDPO Katra Dr. Bhishm Dubey, JKPS; Dy.SP Traffic; and SHO Police Station Katra Inspector Ranjeet Singh Rao.
During the visit, the DIG inspected all naka and checking points in and around Katra and interacted with police personnel deployed on the ground. She stressed the need for strict checking, heightened vigilance and a pilgrim-friendly approach to ensure safety and smooth movement during the peak rush.
Ms. Rizvi also visited the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC), Katra, where she reviewed its functioning and the live surveillance system. Officials informed her that 564 CCTV cameras are actively providing live feed coverage of Katra town, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi track, and other sensitive locations. Directions were issued for optimal use of the ICCC for real-time monitoring, swift response, and effective crowd and traffic management.
The DIG further reviewed the action taken on minutes and directions issued during the earlier meeting chaired by the Director General of Police at the Spiritual Growth Centre, Katra, with special emphasis on strengthening security arrangements for pilgrims.
As part of the on-ground assessment, Ms. Rizvi conducted a foot patrol at key locations including Ticket Counter No. 2, Bus Stand Katra, Varun Chowk, Fountain Chowk and Asia Chowk, assessing traffic flow and crowd movement. She also interacted with pilgrims from different parts of the country and enquired about the arrangements in place for the darshan of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi.
The DIG also met CRPF personnel deployed at various naka points and appreciated their role in maintaining security and assisting pilgrims.
The visit reaffirmed the commitment of the police and security forces to ensure robust security, effective crowd control and seamless management during the New Year period.
