SDRF 2nd Battalion Jammu intensifies Public Safety Awareness campaign during Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra in Monsoon Season

JAMMU: The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), 2nd Bn Jammu is continuously undertaking preventive awareness campaigns to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims and the general public during the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY-2026) and the prevailing monsoon season. The campaign at various places has been organised under the overall supervision and guidance of CO 2nd Bn SDRF Jammu Mohamad Aslam keeping in view the “Monsoon Safety Advisory” for all citizens and pilgrims.

The official deployed by SDRF 2nd Bn Jammu under the supervision of Dy. SP Lalit Kumar at the Yatri Registration Point, Tawi River Front, Jammu, conducted public safety announcements using megaphones to educate and sensitize pilgrims about the potential dangers associated with rivers during the monsoon season.

Pilgrims were advised not to venture near or enter the Tawi River, as the water level may rise suddenly due to heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas, resulting in strong currents and flash flood-like situations that pose a serious threat to life and safety.

The pilgrims were urged to remain vigilant, follow the instructions issued by the administration and security agencies and cooperate with SDRF personnel deployed at the site. They were also requested to discourage fellow pilgrims from taking unnecessary risks near water bodies.

Similarly, personnel of SDRF 2nd Bn Jammu deployed at CD Town, Akhnoor, conducted Public Awareness Announcements at various ghats along the Chenab River.

Residents, visitors and devotees were informed that continuous heavy rainfall in the upper reaches, particularly in Doda and Kishtwar districts, has led to a significant rise in the water level of the Chenab River.

The Public was strongly advised to stay away from the riverbanks and refrain from entering the river under any circumstances. People were cautioned that swift currents, sudden increase in water level, slippery embankments and hidden underwater hazards can lead to fatal accidents within moments.

In view of the ongoing monsoon season the CO 2nd Battalion SDRF Jammu Mohammad Aslam advises all citizens and pilgrims to observe the safety precautions:

Do not approach or enter rivers, streams, nallahs, waterfalls or other water bodies during or after rainfall, never attempt to cross overflowing bridges, flooded roads, or fast-flowing streams, stay away from riverbanks, as erosion and sudden surges in water level can occur without prior warning, avoid bathing, swimming, washing clothes, or taking selfies near rivers during the monsoon, keep children under constant supervision and prevent them from playing near water bodies, follow weather advisories and warnings issued by the District Administration, IMD and Disaster Management authorities, do not spread or believe rumours; rely only on official information and advisories, report any emergency, rising water level, landslide or distress situation immediately to the nearest SDRF, Police, or District Administration authorities, cooperate with emergency responders and immediately evacuate vulnerable areas if advised by the authorities.

Pilgrims are requested to remain on designated routes, avoid unnecessary movement near water bodies and strictly adhere to instructions issued by security and rescue agencies.

The SDRF 2nd Bn personnel continue to remain deployed round the clock at vulnerable locations to ensure the safety of pilgrims and the general public. Through continuous monitoring, timely response, preventive awareness campaigns and coordinated disaster preparedness measures, SDRF 2nd BN Jammu remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting lives and preventing untoward incidents during the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY-2026) and the ongoing monsoon season.

The general public is requested to exercise caution, act responsibly and cooperate with the authorities in the interest of collective safety.