Parliamentary Panel Seeks Tighter Security, Emergency Response at J&K Tourist Spots

A Parliamentary panel has recommended an integrated security and surveillance framework for major tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir, calling for comprehensive CCTV coverage, centralised monitoring facilities and regular security assessments. The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs made the recommendations in its report on administrative governance, socio-economic development and border and internal security in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The recommendations come against the backdrop of the April 22, 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran Valley, where 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed by terrorists. The panel said security management at tourist destinations has assumed greater importance amid a steady rise in tourist arrivals. The committee recommended regular vulnerability assessments and periodic security audits, along with clear inter-agency standard operating procedures to be prescribed and reviewed before every peak tourist season. These measures, it said, would facilitate a coordinated and timely response to security incidents.

The panel also called for dedicated emergency response units, adequately equipped ambulances, trauma-care facilities and clearly identified evacuation routes at all high-footfall tourist destinations. Emergency contact numbers and safety instructions should be prominently displayed at hotels, transport points and tourist facilities in multiple languages.

It further recommended joint security audits and vulnerability assessments before the tourist season and the Amarnath Yatra to identify and address emerging security concerns. The recommendations followed the committee’s study visit to Jammu, Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg and Kargil from May 11 to 15, 2026. During the visit, it assessed security arrangements in Gulmarg, interacted with Jammu and Kashmir Police officials in Sonmarg and reviewed border security preparedness in Kargil with Army representatives.

In Ladakh, the panel welcomed the induction of advanced weapon systems, unmanned aerial systems, counter-drone technologies and modern surveillance equipment. It recommended sustained investment in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, counter-drone capabilities, secure communications and indigenous high-altitude technologies, along with timely deployment and periodic upgrades.