Project Hawk Eye Security Initiative for Amarnath Yatra

Project Hawk Eye Security Initiative for Amarnath Yatra

#GS-2 #Current Events #Internal Security #Governance & Social Justice #National #Gujarat #Infrastructure

Why in News

  • The Jammu and Kashmir Police in Anantnag district launched a new security program called Project Hawk Eye for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026.

About Project Hawk Eye

  • Project Hawk Eye is an advanced security and surveillance system created to protect religious travel routes.

Organizing Agency

  • The Anantnag District Police of the Jammu and Kashmir Police planned and managed this entire initiative.

Aim and Objectives

  • The system provides round-the-clock watch along vulnerable parts of the pilgrimage path.
  • It helps security forces spot suspicious activities early for a quick response.
  • The main goal is to protect pilgrims, manage crowds well, and keep the journey smooth.

Key Features

  • The police deploy 5 advanced drones at important spots to send live aerial views to command centers.
  • A Facial Recognition System (FRS) at major checkpoints scans faces to instantly spot suspects or blacklisted persons.
  • A network of 416 high-resolution CCTV cameras covers sensitive transit areas for continuous ground tracking.
  • The authorities set up 28 vantage posts called Machan Morchas at high or risky locations to serve as watchtowers.
  • Teams of 22 trained snipers sit at high points to offer specialized anti-terror support and quick action if needed.

Significance

  • The project uses drones, FRS, and smart cameras to catch threats early, changing security from a reactive approach to a preventive one.
  • It mixes air and ground watch to remove blind spots and keep a clear view across tough Himalayan land.