Post Pahalgam, panel proposes security boost at major J&K sites

NEW DELHI: A parliamentary committee has recommended an integrated security and surveillance framework for all major tourist destinations in Jammu & Kashmir, incorporating comprehensive CCTV coverage, centralised monitoring facilities, regular vulnerability assessments and periodic security audits.In its 260th report tabled in Parliament on Friday, the department-related standing committee on home affairs also suggested clear inter-agency SOPs be prescribed and reviewed ahead of the peak tourist season to ensure a coordinated and timely response to any security-related incident.The recommendations, which followed the panel's visit to J&K in May 2026 to assess the security arrangements at tourist destinations, come in the wake of last year's Pahalgam terror attack in which 25 tourists were gunned down.The committee noted that sustained growth in tourist arrivals has been facilitated by improved connectivity, stronger security arrangements, better tourist infrastructure and a renewed sense of confidence among visitors."In this context, security management at tourist destinations assumes special importance, as it directly affects the perception of safety, the quality of visitor experience and the continued growth of the tourism sector," it said.Appreciating security arrangements at Gulmarg and other major tourist and religious destinations, the committee noted the deployment of security personnel, surveillance mechanisms, crowd-management measures and coordination among police, tourism department, district administration, development authorities and other agencies.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.