Police intensify Valley-wide inspections to curb misuse of sensitive materials

Srinagar, Nov 20: Police in Srinagar, Kulgam and Shopian have launched intensified inspection drives targeting hardware stores, LPG agencies and establishments dealing with regulated or sensitive materials, as part of a coordinated effort to curb misuse, enhance surveillance and ensure strict compliance with safety and documentation norms.

In Srinagar, police teams conducted extensive checks across all zones of the city, covering areas under the jurisdictions of Police Stations Nowhatta, Lal Bazar, Shaheeganj, Chanapora, Rajbagh, RM Bagh, Saddar, Qamarwari, Zadibal, Hazratbal, Soura, Harwan, Karannagar and adjoining localities.

The inspections focused on ensuring that hardware items—often susceptible to misuse—were being stored, sold and documented in accordance with security protocols. Stock registers, sales logs and identity verification procedures, particularly for bulk buyers, were examined in detail. Teams also assessed storage methods for materials with potential security implications, along with the validity of licenses and adherence to regulatory guidelines.

Shopkeepers were advised to maintain transparency in transactions, stay vigilant and promptly report suspicious activity or unusual purchases. Police said routine inspection drives would continue as part of strengthened preventive measures.

In Kulgam, police carried out rigorous checking at multiple LPG agencies and commercial cylinder distribution points. The scrutiny included verification of distribution and stock records, storage and transport protocols, consumer documentation and compliance with safety norms to prevent black marketing or misuse of cylinders.

Dealers were instructed not to issue any cylinder without proper verification and were warned that violations—especially diversion for unlawful purposes—would invite immediate legal action.

Shopian Police intensified district-wide monitoring with inspections at shops dealing with chemicals, fertilisers, explosives, hardware items and automobile workshops. Shop owners were directed to maintain detailed customer records, document all regulated material sales, install functional CCTV systems and follow all guidelines to prevent misuse by anti-social or extremist elements.

Police officials said the strengthened inspection network has bolstered the district’s security grid and enhanced public confidence in preventive policing.

In Anantnag and Handwara, police teams conducted surprise inspections at chemical, fertiliser and hardware shops to prevent misuse of agricultural chemicals and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Stock records, sale registers, licenses and storage practices were scrutinised under the supervision of senior officers.