Shimla: A wave of heightened security measures has gripped Himachal Pradesh following a bomb threat and the subsequent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
The state government has responded swiftly, escalating vigilance across key tourist destinations and sensitive border areas to prevent any potential spillover of unrest.
Even before the tragic terrorist incident in Pahalgam, intelligence agencies had already sounded an alert regarding possible bomb threats targeting prominent locations in Himachal Pradesh.
These included the Shimla State Secretariat, Mandi district headquarters, and the Jubberhatti Airport. In response, the Bomb Threat Review Committee convened a week ago an emergency meeting at Shimla Airport, chaired by the Airport Director. Representatives from all major security agencies and state departments attended, reaffirming their commitment to aviation safety and preparedness against emergencies.
Following the Pahalgam attack on Tuesday, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu ordered a comprehensive tightening of security across the state, especially along the border areas adjoining Jammu and Kashmir. “Whenever such incidents happen, we must remain vigilant. The police have been directed to intensify monitoring along the border,” said the CM, who also condemned the Pahalgam attack as a “cowardly act” not acceptable in a civilised society.
Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) have been deployed in border-sensitive areas, and security checks have been ramped up. ITBP and Himachal Police personnel are stationed in Kandwal, located in the Kangra district bordering Punjab. Border posts at Bhadroa, Sheikhpura, and Milwan are under strict surveillance, with every incoming vehicle being thoroughly inspected.
The tourist hubs of Shimla, Dharamshala, Kullu, Manali, Solan, and Rohtang are under high alert, with increased police patrolling to ensure safety amid the ongoing tourist season.
In Dharamshala and McLeodganj, nearly 150 police personnel are stationed to monitor the flow of tourists. Security is particularly tight around the residence of Buddhist spiritual leader Dalai Lama, who has recently been granted Z-category protection by the central government. His security detail now includes 30 CRPF personnel and 120 Himachal Police jawans.
In Chamba district, which also shares a border with Jammu and Kashmir, additional police force has been deployed at Tunnuhatti and Lahadu check posts on the Pathankot-Bharmour highway.
Vehicles entering the state from neighbouring regions are being meticulously checked, and activities of migrants, labourers, and other unknown individuals are under close watch. CCTV surveillance has been enhanced at all major transit points.
To further bolster public safety, the Himachal Police Headquarters has released a 112 toll-free number for citizens to report any suspicious activity or persons.
“The safety of our people and tourists is our utmost priority,” said CM Sukhu. “We stand with the victims of Pahalgam and their families. The entire country is mourning, and such incidents must never be allowed to repeat.”
In a strong show of solidarity and protest, markets across Himachal Pradesh remained closed on Thursday. While business establishments in most parts of the state observed a shutdown until 11 AM, traders in Shimla extended the closure until 1 PM.
Himachal Pradesh Vyapar Mandal State President Sumesh Sharma and General Secretary Rakesh Kailash, along with the executive body, have strongly condemned the terrorist violence.
As the state remains on alert, the government continues to coordinate closely with central agencies to ensure peace and security across Himachal Pradesh—especially in its scenic, tourist-friendly regions now under an invisible shield of vigilance.
