Darbar Move: NH witnesses tight security arrangements

Ramban, Nov 2: In the wake of the biannual Darbar Move, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) implemented intensive and heightened security measures to ensure the safe and hassle-free movement of vehicles carrying official records, government employees, ministers, and other VIPs from Srinagar to Jammu along the strategic National Highway-44 (NH44) on Sunday.

According to Commandant N Ranbir Singh of the 84th Battalion, CRPF, all available resources, personnel, and machinery were deployed to guarantee foolproof security during the transition period.

“The CRPF men and machinery have been deployed in full strength, with all assets at our disposal being utilized to ensure smooth and secure movement,” he said.

To maintain constant vigilance, the CRPF has initiated round-the-clock patrolling on the crucial highway stretch between Banihal and Nashri, a section often considered vulnerable due to its terrain and strategic importance. Security forces are using metal detectors, bomb disposal squads, canine units, and aerial surveillance drones to detect and neutralize any potential threat. Special quick reaction teams (QRTs) have also been stationed at sensitive points to respond to any untoward incident promptly.

Additional checkpoints have been established, and vehicle checking has been intensified to prevent the movement of any suspicious elements or materials along the route. Coordination with local police and other security agencies has been strengthened to ensure seamless communication and cooperation.

Meanwhile, as part of the Darbar Move, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, travelled from Srinagar to Jammu on Sunday. He was accompanied by his father, Dr Farooq Abdullah, president of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), former Union Minister, and former Chief Minister of the erstwhile state.

The Abdullah family’s convoy was provided with a multi-layered security cover as it moved along the highway. During their journey, they made a brief halt at Peerah near Ramban, where they stopped for lunch along with their escort teams and senior officers accompanying the convoy.

Officials confirmed that the movement of the Chief Minister and other dignitaries was completed without any incident due to the meticulous security arrangements in place.

The Darbar Move—a century-old biannual practice initiated during the Dogra rule—marks the shifting of the Jammu and Kashmir government’s offices between the twin capitals of Srinagar (summer) and Jammu (winter). This transition involves the transportation of official files, records, and personnel, necessitating elaborate logistical and security preparations each time.