PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE /Dehradun
With the Kanwad Yatra 2026 set to begin on July 30, the Uttarakhand Police have nearly completed all security preparations. As part of the arrangements, about 20 cyber commandos will be deployed to monitor the Kanwad Yatra and keep a close watch on social media platforms.
Speaking about the preparations, Special Task Force senior superintendent of police Ajai Singh said the police have received directions to closely monitor those spreading false information or negative content online. He said the cyber commandos have received specialised training from the Central government. A request has already been sent to the Centre to deploy 20-25 trained personnel in Uttarakhand during the Yatra.
The cyber commandos will track online activities that may pose a threat to security and take immediate action when required. The STF is also collecting data on known gangsters and criminals who have previously entered the state during the Kanwad Yatra by posing as pilgrims. This database will help police identify suspicious people quickly.
To strengthen security further, the Uttarakhand Police Headquarters will also use a face recognition system to detect such criminals. If any wanted or suspicious person is identified, the police teams deployed on the ground will take immediate action, STF SSP Singh said. Officials said these measures are aimed at ensuring that the Kanwad Yatra is conducted peacefully and safely for all devotees.
