Kashmir Impulse Desk
Srinagar, Aug 10
Security agencies have intensified operations across Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Independence Day celebrations on August 15, establishing a multi-layered security grid around major venues, roads and other sensitive locations.
The heightened measures are particularly focused on Srinagar and Jammu, where the main Independence Day events will be held.
In Srinagar, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is scheduled to unfurl the national flag at Bakshi Stadium.
Security forces have increased deployment around the stadium and neighbouring areas, while authorities have stepped up anti-sabotage checks, surveillance and area-domination exercises.
Jammu is also under enhanced security arrangements for the main function in the winter capital, where the deputy chief minister is scheduled to participate.
Officials said the security posture had been raised across districts following intelligence inputs that militants could seek to target vulnerable locations or disrupt public gatherings around Independence Day.
Security personnel have been deployed at strategic points, major roads, entry and exit routes, markets, transport hubs and sensitive installations.
Mobile checkpoints have been established at multiple locations, with vehicles and individuals subjected to intensified checks.
The Srinagar-Jammu highway has also come under increased surveillance, particularly at vulnerable stretches and major junctions, as have roads leading into Srinagar and Jammu.
Around Bakshi Stadium, agencies have carried out sanitisation and anti-sabotage operations and are maintaining surveillance of surrounding areas.
Quick Reaction Teams, bomb-disposal units and anti-sabotage squads have been placed on standby. Searches and surveillance have also been intensified in areas identified as vulnerable from a security perspective.
Drones are being used for aerial monitoring of important routes, public spaces and sensitive areas, while CCTV networks have been expanded and closely monitored.
K9 teams have been deployed to detect explosives and assist in venue sanitisation.
Across Jammu and Kashmir, the J&K Police, Army, Central Armed Police Forces and Border Security Force have intensified night patrols and area-domination operations.
The security measures come against the backdrop of recent militant incidents in south Kashmir.
Officials said particular attention was being given to south Kashmir districts, border areas and suspected infiltration routes along the Line of Control and the International Border.
Security agencies are simultaneously pursuing militants and their support networks linked to recent incidents while maintaining security for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra and preparing for Independence Day functions.
Officials said coordination among agencies had been strengthened and surveillance of suspicious movements increased.
The security establishment aims to prevent any breach during the celebrations while allowing people to attend public functions without fear.
Authorities have asked the public to cooperate with checking and frisking operations and to report suspicious people, vehicles, objects or activities to police or nearby security posts.
The heightened security posture is expected to remain in place before, during and immediately after the August 15 celebrations.
