Srinagar, Aug 10: Unprecedented multi-layered security arrangements have been put in place in the twin capitals of Srinagar and Jammu ahead of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15.
The heightened measures have been particularly intensified around the venues of the main Independence Day functions, with security agencies carrying out extensive anti-sabotage checks, area domination exercises, surveillance and frisking operations to prevent any attempt to disrupt the celebrations.
In Srinagar, where Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is scheduled to unfurl the national flag at Bakshi Stadium, security forces have substantially strengthened the security grid around the stadium and adjoining areas.
The Jammu administration is also undertaking elaborate security arrangements for the main Independence Day function in the winter capital, where the Deputy Chief Minister is scheduled to participate in the celebrations.
Officials said the security apparatus has been placed on high alert across all districts following intelligence inputs indicating that terrorists could attempt to target vulnerable locations or disrupt public events around Independence Day.
Security forces have increased the deployment of personnel at strategic locations, major roads, entry and exit points, markets, transport hubs and other sensitive installations.
Mobile checkpoints, or nakas, have been established at multiple locations, with personnel conducting intensive checking of vehicles and frisking individuals.
The security grid has also been strengthened along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, particularly at vulnerable stretches and important junctions, besides roads leading towards the twin capitals.
In Srinagar, security agencies have undertaken detailed sanitisation and anti-sabotage measures around Bakshi Stadium and other important locations associated with the August 15 celebrations.
Security personnel are also maintaining a close watch on movement in areas surrounding the venue.
Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), bomb disposal squads, and anti-sabotage teams have been kept on standby to respond to any emergency.
Security agencies are also conducting searches and surveillance in areas considered vulnerable from the security point of view.
Aerial surveillance has been enhanced, with drones being deployed to monitor important routes, public spaces and sensitive areas.
CCTV surveillance has also been expanded and strengthened at strategic locations, while existing camera networks are being closely monitored.
K9 squads have been deployed for explosive detection and sanitisation of venues and other important installations.
Security agencies are also conducting repeated checks of public places and areas around the venues to rule out any possible threat.
Night patrolling and area domination exercises have been intensified across the Valley and Jammu region by the J&K Police, Army, Central Armed Police Forces, and Border Security Force.
The security arrangements come against the backdrop of recent terror incidents in south Kashmir.
Officials said special attention was being paid to south Kashmir districts, border areas and suspected infiltration routes along the Line of Control and the International Border.
Security forces have increased surveillance in vulnerable areas to prevent any movement of terrorists or their associates.
The agencies are simultaneously pursuing terrorists and their support networks linked to recent incidents while maintaining security for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra and preparing for Independence Day events.
Security agencies have also increased surveillance of suspicious movements and are maintaining coordination among different forces deployed across J&K.
The objective, officials said, is to ensure that there is no security breach during the celebrations and that people can participate in Independence Day functions without fear.
The arrangements are expected to remain in force for several days, with security forces maintaining a heightened posture before, during and immediately after the August 15 functions.
Authorities have appealed to the public to cooperate with security personnel during checking and frisking and to remain vigilant.
People have been advised to immediately inform the police or nearest security post about any suspicious person, vehicle, object, or activity.
With the main Independence Day functions scheduled in Srinagar and Jammu, the security establishment has activated a comprehensive security grid involving multiple agencies, surveillance systems, ground deployment, and rapid-response mechanisms.
The focus, officials said, is on preventing any attempt by terrorists to exploit the heightened public movement around Independence Day, while ensuring the smooth conduct of celebrations across J&K.
