Independence-Day celebrations: Heightened security in place across Kashmir
Srinagar, Aug 11: In anticipation of the upcoming Independence Day celebrations on August 15, unprecedented security arrangements have been put in place across the Kashmir Valley, with the main official function scheduled to be held at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar while in Jammu the main function will be held M A Stadium.
To ensure the peaceful conduct of the national event, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, in coordination with paramilitary forces, has implemented a multi-tier security grid across Kashmir . This includes heightened surveillance, deployment of sharpshooters, and the establishment of numerous checkpoints in key areas.
Besides Srinagar City, the security forces intensified frisking in other areas of J&K, especially at various points along the Srinagar-Jammu and Srinagar-Baramulla other highways. Armed personnel and cops in civvies have been deployed around the Independence Day function venue to keep an eye on suspicious persons.
Officials in the security establishment said that all the high-rise buildings around the main venue of the Independence Day function in Srinagar and Jammu have been occupied by sharpshooters of the Police and paramilitary CRPF personnel to prevent any untoward incident. They said that there is ground surveillance as well as aerial surveillance.
“Both human and technical means will be used to ensure incident-free Independence Day celebrations,” the officials said. They said that the commuters travelling on roads and highways in and around Srinagar as well as in Jammu were being thoroughly frisked and their identity asked.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, V.K. Birdi, said the robust security preparations being undertaken. “In view of the 15th August celebrations, drill rehearsals are being conducted at various locations. At the same time, elaborate multi-tier security arrangements are being put in place to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the event,” he said.
IGP Birdi reiterated that the primary goal of these security measures is to facilitate peaceful celebrations across the Valley. “The Jammu and Kashmir Police, along with paramilitary forces, is working in close coordination to secure all venues and public spaces. We are confident that the arrangements will ensure an incident-free Independence Day,” he added.
The security apparatus includes aerial surveillance, high-tech CCTV monitoring, and intensified patrolling in sensitive zones. Entry and exit points across districts have been fortified, and movement is being closely monitored to prevent any untoward incidents.
Meanwhile, Bakshi Stadium, the venue for the main function, is undergoing final preparations. The site is heavily guarded, with access strictly regulated. Rehearsals for the ceremonial parade are being carried out under tight security. “Anti-sabotage checks are going on at the venue, besides searches in its peripheral areas,” the official said. “Patrolling is going on round the clock while human intelligence and technical surveillance have also been pressed into service to monitor the movement of people in Srinagar city and its peripheral areas.”
In addition to the arrangements in Srinagar, comprehensive security measures have been implemented across the Valley. Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) have been deployed at strategic locations, while checkpoints have been set up to monitor vehicular movement. Special instructions have been issued to police personnel to remain vigilant and coordinate with other security agencies.
Authorities have urged the public to cooperate with security personnel and follow advisories issued for the day. Citizens have also been encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
As the Union Territory prepares to celebrate the 78th Independence Day, the administration and security forces are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the occasion is marked with enthusiasm, pride, and above all, safety.
