Tirumala: In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, security has been heightened across the country, including at the Tirumala hill shrine. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has declared a high alert and implemented strict vigilance measures to ensure the safety of pilgrims visiting the temple of Lord Venkateswara.
TTD officials confirmed that precautionary steps have been taken in response to alerts from national intelligence agencies. Vigilance teams are conducting rigorous checks at the Alipiri checkpoint, link road, and various locations along the ghat roads. All vehicles and devotees arriving from Tirupati are being subjected to thorough inspections. RTC buses, private vehicles, and passenger luggage are being checked without exception.
Pilgrims traveling on foot via the Alipiri and Srivari Mettu pathways are also undergoing strict security screening, with checks being conducted on their belongings before entry is permitted.
Given the high pilgrim turnout and the heightened national threat perception, TTD has intensified security arrangements both on the hill and within the temple complex. Officials are maintaining constant surveillance around the temple premises to prevent any untoward incidents.
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As part of emergency preparedness, the elite anti-terror unit OCTOPUS has also been placed on alert. A mock drill was recently conducted at the temple to train security, medical, and temple staff on coordinated response mechanisms in the event of a terrorist attack. The drill involved TTD vigilance personnel, civil and reserve police forces, and healthcare teams.
TTD sources said these measures are part of a comprehensive security plan aimed at safeguarding devotees amid potential terror threats. Armed forces have been deployed for 24/7 monitoring, and additional patrolling is being carried out in and around the temple zone.
Authorities reiterated that these are precautionary steps being taken in view of the broader national security environment, and urged devotees to cooperate with the ongoing security protocols.